Funds still needed for the McGuan Park realization

NORWALK — Funds are still needed for the McGuan Park revitalization project but plans for a second pump track will not increase the cost. Park and recreation director Joe Lindenberger said the second track is necessary so younger and older children are able to enjoy without bumping into one another. Remote-control cars will also be able to be used on the smaller pump track. A pump track is a circuit of rollers, banked turns and features designed to be ridden completely by riders "pumping" — generating momentum by up and down body movements, instead of pedaling or pushing. It was originally designed for the mountain bike and BMX scene, and now, due to concrete constructions, is also used by skateboard and accessible to wheelchairs. Along with the pump tracks the park will have an all-abilities playground and a full-court basketball court — the only one (outside) in the city. The all-abilities playground will have ramp access and multiple wheelchair features, adaptive swings, zip lines and an all-abilities seesaw. Lindenberger said Jason James, with Rockstar Concrete, offered his services to help frame and pour concrete for the project. He said he would love for other construction companies to reach out "because our general service department, as outstanding as they are, there is so much they will be doing with the installation of the playground. I like that philosophy that many hands make for light work." Lindenberger says they will have signage and naming rights for those that make contributions. He said are thankful for what they have received, but still not where they need to be funding-wise. Another $50,000 is needed for the more than $350,000 project. The second pump track shouldn't drive up the price of the project because the city has "a lot of base material," Lindenberger said. Lindenberger said the department is hoping to purchase the equipment in the upcoming weeks. "We only have one shot at this so let's make sure we do it right. We'd hate to cut back on this," he stated.