Township Officials Ask for Increased Funding for Open Space Maintenance

Matthew Hersh

The last several years have seen an increase in parks and open space in Princeton Township, and now, citing a need for increased maintenance and staff support, parks officials are lobbying for more funding from the municipality.

With 13 parks used for recreational activities, members in the Department of Public Works said increased funding is needed in light of the recently-opened Greenway Meadows Park and the opening of Coventry Farm within the next year.

Township Open Space Manager Greg O'Neil said that out of those 13 parks, seven need daily maintenance, including Barbara Smoyer Park, Community Park North and South, the newly-opened Greenway Meadows, Hilltop Park, Mountain Lakes, and Turning Basin Park.

He said more funding is needed to police the public areas, maintain the gravel lots, inspect trails for impediments, and remove trash and recyclables.

The constant upkeep of playground equipment is crucial, Mr. O'Neil said, adding "a loose bolt could result in a huge problem." He added that not only is poorly maintained equipment a liability for the Township, but could potentially lead to dangerous scenarios.

Deputy Mayor William Enslin said he would like to see the parks issues addressed before the Township acquires more areas designated for open space.

"I will personally resist any new acquisitions until we can maintain our current open space areas," he said. "In my mind, the Township owes many millions to the parks that need maintenance."

Mr. Enslin added that despite "tough times," the Township needs to put forth more than minimum resources.

"I don't want to see the parks become a disgrace," he said.

But Committee member Casey Hegener said that because of tight budgetary constraints, she would like a report of what needs daily maintenance.

"Let's figure out what absolutely has to be done everyday and then give us a sense [of the demand]," Ms. Hegener said.

Mayor Phyllis Marchand said money can be used from the Princeton Township Open Space Fund. The fund is used to keep donations from residents for the use of open space maintenance and acquisition.