SITE AMENITIES AND INFRASTRUCTURE

Basic infrastructure

Restrooms

Updating the facilities will likely require demolishing the existing structure and building a 2-stall restroom with baby changing stations. Current restroom facilities are connected to Sylvester School's septic system, but high-quality composting toilets may be a water-saving option with comparable maintenance costs.¹

Benches

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Benches

Seating for watching sports, resting along the walking loop, and most other passive activities should be in shade at least part of the day, with some full-sun options for winter enjoyment. Senior citizens said they should have backrests and armrests for comfort and accessibility.

Water stations

Drinking water should be available at B. Everett Hall Field. However, providing safe drinking water on site would require replacing the pipes. If this is done, water station(s) should be located near the courts, playground, and field.

Moveable chairs and tables

Accessible picnic tables are present on site, and remain in the design proposal. Movable furniture provides an alternative that is comfortable and versatile. Incorporating this kind of seating in the shady area of the park creates a space conducive for lawn games and casual use by individuals, pairs, or small groups.

Field lights

Electrical lines could be buried underground. New lightposts for field lights and lights along pathways should be installed for safety. Electric lights can be made more efficient with solar-powered or LED-bulbs, although LED-bulbs can contribute to light pollution which harms insects.²

Planter benches

Planter benches behind the backstop of the baseball field offer spectator seating for games and practices. Benches on either side of the planter add additional seating for walkers, or those who want to face the bandstand area. Vaselike shrubs provide shade and demarcate the sports-related space and bandstand gathering area. By incorporating a water reservoir underneath the soil, water from storm events can be harvested. The soil can retain more moisture for a longer period of time after storm events as water from this reservoir evaporates. This approach can reduce maintenance and enhance the experience of those coming to the park to spectate or to sit in nature.

Plants should be low-maintenance, sun-loving, perennial, rain garden plants (plants that can tolerate periods of both drought and moist conditions) that won’t crowd seating, that won’t attract bees and birds, that require minimal maintenance, and can provide winter interest.