Aspinwall Fireman's Park pavilion eyed for upgrades

People who use Fireman’s Park in Aspinwall will notice significant upgrades in coming months to the site off West Ninth Street.

The state awarded the borough a $45,290 grant on Sept. 19 to renovate the park pavilion.

“The borough is thrilled to receive the grant to update our beloved Fireman’s Park pavilion,” borough Manager Melissa Lang said.

The pavilion is rented by residents every weekend from April to October to host family parties, graduations, weddings and other events, she said.

Work will include safety and accessibility upgrades.

The money is administered through the Commonwealth Finance Authority through its Greenway, Trails and Recreation program.

“This project ensures that all the neighbors I represent can have fun but be safe as well when enjoying the park’s amenities,” said state Rep. Sara Innamorato, D-Lawrenceville.

Work to the structure will wrap up an ongoing project to beautify the park, Lang said.

In 2021, the borough earned a $25,000 Community Development Block Grant to help pay to fix the deteriorated walking trail at the park.

Plans included widening the path from from 4-feet to 6-feet to boost safety and accessibility. Cost was about $50,000.

The walking trail stretches about a quarter-mile around the park.

Sen. Lindsey Williams, D-West View, said “investment in the green spaces that connect us all is a smart way to invest in the growth of our communities, our health and our future.

“These projects and the benefits that they will bring to their neighborhoods cannot be overstated.”