In a significant move to enhance outdoor amenities, Dickson City is set to invest over $400,000 in upgrading two of its parks this year. The borough council recently approved nearly $412,000 in funding for improvements at Crystal Park and Riverfront Park. This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to improve local recreational facilities.
Crystal Park, situated at Doloff Drive and Shady Lane Drive, will see several upgrades. These include a new mural and the installation of Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant walkways throughout the park. Additionally, enhancements will include renovating the baseball dugouts and press box, adding a pickleball court, updating the basketball court, expanding parking facilities, and introducing a rain garden. The first phase of these developments involves a payment of $217,930.50 to Stafursky Paving Co. of Archbald, which will proceed in three installments.
The second phase of the Crystal Park project will focus on new playground equipment, with a $416,229.75 contract awarded to Reinfurt Excavating Inc. of Honesdale. Both phases are expected to be completed by fall, with contractors working simultaneously on these improvements.
Enhancing the aesthetic appeal of Crystal Park, local muralist Eric Bussart has been commissioned to paint a recreational-themed mural on the park’s concession building. This artwork will feature various activities offered at Dickson City’s parks, such as baseball, softball, basketball, walking, and fishing. The mural, costing $16,500 with an additional $2,175 allocated for preparation, is scheduled for completion by the end of June under grant funding guidelines.
Riverfront Park will also receive significant upgrades, with the borough council allocating $175,000 for the purchase and installation of a pavilion. This funding is secured through a grant from the state Department of Community and Economic Development, and the pavilion is being procured via the state’s COSTARS cooperative purchasing program. Opened in October 2023, Riverfront Park already features a Lackawanna River boat launch, a dog park, picnic areas, and walking trails. The new pavilion will add versatility to the park, supporting events such as the town’s 150th anniversary celebrations.
Furthermore, plans are underway to enhance lighting at Riverfront Park. The borough has engaged engineering consultancy GPI to manage the design, bidding, and construction of approximately 18 new lights around the park and its access routes. Currently, lighting is limited to the parking lot, and the council expects to put this project out to bid shortly.
These park improvements reflect Dickson City’s commitment to enhancing residents’ quality of life by providing diverse recreational opportunities. Alongside other community developments, such as Main Street revitalization and new healthcare facilities, the upgraded parks will offer a range of activities for residents of all ages.