Last Monday’s Gettysburg Area Recreation Authority (GARA) board meeting underscored the powerful role of community volunteers and the steady progress of long-term projects at the rec park.
The evening began with a heartfelt thank you to master electrician Mike Carter. a community member who stepped up to tackle critical electrical issues at the pavilion. After discovering that the old panel box was corroded and sparking, Mike replaced it with donated labor and just a few hundred dollars worth of parts. Board members praised the contribution, noting that the park has always thrived thanks to neighbors lending their time and skills.
From there, attention shifted to facility improvements. Board member Warren Sheppard reported major strides on the long-running baseball stadium lighting project. Crews rewired all the lights on Wyer Field, though some poles still need work. A surprise came when stored bulbs were found to be the wrong wattage, forcing the team to retrofit fixtures with new 1,000-watt units. Even so, Sheppard said the project is on track to finish under budget. He added that the effort is already paying dividends: “Kids are out there playing night baseball, and for some of them it’s the highlight of their young careers.”
Playground upgrades are also moving forward. Old equipment has been dismantled, and the layout has been redesigned to improve traffic flow and provide shade. New swings and a relocated picnic area are part of the plan, with the goal of finishing before winter weather arrives. Local contractors may be approached to donate concrete for sidewalks and play areas.
Executive Director Al Moyer shared updates on outreach efforts. A formal proposal has been sent to Straban Township, asking for support in light of the large number of township youth using the park. Meanwhile, local philanthropists are considering a donation for a new splash pad, though board members stressed the need for ongoing maintenance funding before moving ahead. Other priorities, such as new paving, were also highlighted.
The meeting also touched on partnerships with local organizations. Gettysburg History will borrow bleachers for an upcoming film production, and a redesigned GARA website is nearing launch. The board discussed how best to display Hall of Fame plaques in the multipurpose room, with several members supporting leaving them visible as a point of community pride.
In education outreach, GARA leaders have been meeting with Gettysburg Area School District teachers to explore ways students can contribute through service projects and field days. One idea would bring together all elementary students for a spring event at the park, introducing them to the facilities before entering middle school.
Looking to the future, the board reviewed preliminary renderings that would reconfigure the northern end of the park to improve efficiency and create a premier softball complex. The plan could expand opportunities for tournaments and better meet the needs of local girls’ teams.
Charles (Chuck) Stangor is Gettysburg Connection's Owner, Publisher, and Editor in Chief. I would like to hear from you. Please contact me at cstangor@gettysburgconnection.org.