$425,000 State Grant for Mittineague Park East Entrance Improvements

Published on October 22, 2025

West Springfield, MA:  The Town of West Springfield has been awarded $425,000 through the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ Parkland Acquisitions and Renovations for Communities (“PARC”) Grant Program to support major improvements at the East Entrance of Mittineague Park, the Town’s largest, most heavily used, and oldest section of the park. Originally developed in the 1930s, the East Entrance has long served as the heart of recreational activity in West Springfield and will now undergo a comprehensive renovation to better meet the needs of today’s residents.

The funding will assist with the renovation and redesign of the 10-acre East Entrance area, including upgrades to playgrounds, ballfields, parking, and pedestrian access. The project will create two new ADA-compliant playgrounds, a splash pad, enhanced walkways, expanded parking, improved stormwater management, and new shade and seating areas. These improvements are designed to ensure the park remains a welcoming, accessible, and family-friendly destination for future generations.

Mayor William C. Reichelt praised the award, saying, “This is yet another example of how our administration continues to leverage local investment into something even better through successful grant opportunities. The PARC grant allows us to turn our long-term vision for Mittineague Park into reality, creating a safer, more accessible, and more enjoyable space for our residents while maximizing the impact of every local dollar.”

The PARC grant, administered by the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs’ Division of Conservation Services, supports the acquisition and development of park and outdoor recreation facilities across Massachusetts. The program prioritizes projects that promote equity, accessibility, and environmental resilience in urban and environmental justice communities. 

Engineering and design services are being provided by GZA GeoEnvironmental, Inc., and the project will be managed jointly by the Town’s Central Maintenance Department and the Parks and Recreation Department.

Construction is expected to begin in 2026, following final design and permitting.