Mike Olbeter said he believes an improved Coulter Playground in Greensburg will attract more children and discourage vandalism and other unwanted activity there.
"It's a good neighborhood, and a lot of kids are growing up there," Olbeter said.
A meeting is scheduled for 9 a.m. Jan. 26 at the Westmoreland Museum of American Art for residents who live near the playground. They will discuss what to do with a $10,000 KaBOOM grant that was awarded to make improvements at the playground in the city's 1st Ward, said organizer Steve Gifford, executive director of Greensburg Community Development Corp.
Gifford said the playground was discussed with neighbors during August meetings of My Neighborhood Program. That state program, known as the Elm Street Program, aims at enhancing areas near city downtown areas.
"One of the things they said they really wanted was improvements to the playground," Gifford said.
Some neighbors said the recreation area has been targeted by vandals. They worry about drug deals going on there.
"It will make it safer and keep the riffraff out," Olbeter said of the proposed changes.
Another resident who lives near the playground, Camie Grillo, believes the improvements will entice more children and adults to go there.
"I think our neighborhood will use it, but I know myself ... that others will use it, too," she said.
The playground is one of the few in the city with basketball courts, neighbors said.
"If it's kept up ... people will want to go there," Olbeter said.
Another nearby resident, Alex Graziani, said playgrounds help to attract residents.
"(Playgrounds) really stabilize neighborhoods," he added.
The recommendations made at the August meetings included replacing playground benches and equipment. Residents suggested that new lines be painted on the basketball court.
Other suggestions were painting of an existing swing and the additions of a water fountain, trash cans, walking path and flower garden.
The KaBOOM grant, which must be used by Aug. 15, was given by The Grable Foundation.
Gifford said overall Coulter expenses are projected at $38,000. The city, which owns the playground, is expected to make a contribution. Other grant funding is being sought, Gifford said.
Gifford said lights are being proposed to help deter vandalism and any other unwanted activity.
Barbara Ciampini, city planning director, said large-scale improvements haven't been made to the playground for at least 15 years.
"If it brings out the children and helps the neighborhood, that's wonderful," she said.
Monday, January 14, 2008
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