NEWS from the
TOWNSHIP OF IRVINGTON

"It is the goal of this administration to investigate and implement any initiative that will improve life in Irvington, and to do so with all due care, commitment and concern."
MAYOR WAYNE SMITH

A new community center is being unveiled today at Irvington's largest municipally-owned and operated park.

Chancellor Park's former field house-which lacked walls and was held together by only a worn tin roof and supporting beams-has given way to a 3,000 square-foot masonry and brick facility with a multipurpose room, office space, a kitchenette and restrooms. A new walkway with handicap access, wrought iron fencing and a flagpole have been installed to enhance the entrance to the $860,000 building. The center was designed by James Guerra P. A. Architects of Elizabeth, and Development Concepts of Edison began the 7-month construction project in March 2007.

"This gives us an additional facility in which young people can be engaged and where civic and neighborhood groups can assemble for their community activities," Mayor Wayne Smith said. "We look forward to the community's maximum utilization of this new center," he added.

The transformation of Chancellor Park began in 2005 with the installation of the $140,000 playground consisting of a multi-colored jungle gym, swing sets and other structures.

"This is a magnificent milestone for our park programs and a monumental day for the residents of Irvington," according to Donald Malloy, director of the Department of Parks, Recreation & Cultural Affairs. "They will enjoy many activities and gatherings in a facility that is as functional as it is striking."

Funding for the $1 million makeover was provided by a $500,000 grant by the NJ Department of Environmental Protection's Green Acres program, and with matching municipal monies from Irvington.

"The DEP is pleased to play a part in the creation of a new community center, especially in an urban neighborhood where parkland is in such short supply," said John Flynn, administrator of the DEP's Green Acres Program. "With such rapid development and loss of open space in our state, it is more important than ever that we help towns like Irvington provide quality open space and attractive recreational facilities for all to enjoy."

Proposed future improvements to the park include new basketball and tennis courts, landscaping, and lampposts at the entrance.

Irvington At-Large Council Members D. Bilal Beasley and Lebby Jones, and Sandra R. Jones, council representative for the South Ward-where the park is located-are spearheading an effort to launch the Friends of Chancellor Park. "We will support the continued development of Chancellor Park by drawing even more activities and community partners," according to Beasley. Discussions are underway with the Irvington Tennis Association, the Irvington Jr. Police Cadets, Irvington Biddie and Small Fry basketball teams, and block associations, among other groups, he added.

Beasley and Sandra Jones are the chairperson and president, respectively, of the 11-year-old Friends of Irvington Park. The park is owned and operated by the County of Essex.

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