Parks Superintendent Chad Jonsson presents the new park signs to the park foundation members. Pictured are Erick Leffler and Chad Jonsson. (Photo by Elisa Walker)

SYRACUSE — Syracuse Park Foundation met at the community center Tuesday evening, Feb. 27. The meeting was spent reviewing the trail committee’s Conklin Bay project, park signage designs and plans in Laudeman Park. The next meeting is set to be at 6 p.m. March 27.

Erick Leffler reported the trail committee is still fundraising for the Conklin Bay project as they didn’t receive a grant asking for $250,000 that was applied for, which would’ve been matched by two other organizations. Now taking other avenues through grants and donations, they’re still hoping to raise enough funds so the project can begin. The estimated funds should be around $1.7 million, a percentage of which would be set aside in a fund to maintain and keep it going in the future.

It’s unknown as to why the grant wasn’t received. Megan McClellan is still trying to get into contact with the organization to understand why and see if there are any other opportunities down the road, but has yet to hear back.

Parks Superintendent Chad Jonsson stated the county permit for the Lakeside Park restrooms is still in the process as the location of the building would be crossing a lot line. The issue is getting resolved and Jonsson hopes to continue toward completing the project by Memorial Day weekend. He also said the parks department was awarded a $4,800 grant for new park signs. Presenting the designs to the foundation, he added there will be new signs for Lakeside Park, Hoys Beach and Veteran’s Memorial Park at Crosson Mill.

A Community Tree Planting Day in Laudeman Park has been set for April 21, with the time to be determined closer to the date. In working with NIPSCO for tree donations along with the town’s tree nursery, about 20 to 25 trees will be planted in the park in a variety of locations. Many community groups have been invited to participate in some way. It will not only be a great opportunity to bond with other community members, but to also introduce people to the new property if they’re unfamiliar with it.

Jonsson commented they’re trying to work with the high school’s 2018-19 landscaping class, hoping for the community project they’ll be interested in helping design the park.