Inwood Park is being repaired and upgraded

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Inwood Park, on Bayview Avenue in Inwood, is part of the $15 million investment Nassau County announced, as several county parks will receive substantial renovations and added amenities.

Damaged in a May of 2016 fire, county officials said that work is already under way to repair Inwood Park’s administration building that includes the main office and restrooms. The revamped building is expected to be open and ready for use by this summer, officials said. The work is costing nearly $750,000.

The county also bid out $2.5 million to rebuild 500 linear feet of what officials described as dilapidated bulkhead and boat ramps at the 16-acre waterfront park. The construction will include an American Disabilities Act compliant kayak launch. The construction is scheduled be completed by the spring of next year.

It means a lot to my constituents in that area, having access to enjoy a county park in an important part of our quality of life,” said County Legislator Carrie Solagés, who presents Inwood, along with several other communities. “The opportunity to enjoy a county is very important and I’m glad it’s coming to fruition as the weather is improving.”

Solagés said the money to do the work has been available, but the reduction of employees in the county’s Department of Public Works because of budget issues was a hindrance. He noted that the restroom renovation was completed on March 6, and with the help of good weather the remainder of the month the entire administration building could be finished by the end of March. The next project is reinstalling the security booth to help increase the safety of park users, keep the area secure and generate more revenue, he said, noting he has discussed the idea with Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder.

County officials said they developed a smarter investment strategy to implement a wide-ranging, comprehensive plan. Consolidating and streamlining DPW projects, along with evaluating the individual construction projects, should increase efficiency, they said.

“With 6,000 acres of public park space countywide, our goal is to ensure that we’re making the most out of our substantial green spaces,” County Executive Laura Curran said in a news release. “Park maintenance and enhancement are key to making Nassau a better place for people to live, work and play — It is a vital investment in the well-being of residents that will last for generations to come.”

Located at the end of Bayview Avenue, Inwood Park opened in 1956. Its grounds include a softball with lights that is also used for football and soccer, two basketball courts, two tennis courts, a path that encircles the perimeter of the park used for walks or jogging, and a playground.

A roller rink with lights is open nearly year-round, closed December to March. Fees are $33 for a single day session, $27 per session, a minimum of three sessions; $44 for a one-night session and $38 per evening, a minimum of three sessions. There is also a picnic area. A Leisure Pass and fee are required for reserved areas. Saltwater fishing and crabbing are allowed and there is a launch ramp for boats. A Leisure Pass and permit is required.

Inwood Civic Association President David Hance said he appreciated the renovations and endorses Solagés’ push for the security booth. “We’re delighted that Inwood will receive upgrades to its infrastructure, and I hope more people take advantage of it, it’s a great resource,” he said, adding if staffing for the booth is in the county budget, “I’m all for it.”

For more park information, call (516) 571-7894 or go to, www.nassaucountyny.gov/2800/Inwood-Park.