On Feb. 10, Cindy Hazelton, the director of the Gorham Rec. Department, led a discussion with members of the community concerning the coming changes to Robie Park. After a year of Robie Park Planning Committee meetings, hiring a landscape architect, and developing a plan and map for the park, work is about to begin. Phase One of the Master Plan includes the replacement of the playground with an ADA approved playground, the installation of a play berm and a water play space, and the removal of the current basketball court. The community will notice the preparation for construction before the end of winter. Construction should begin in April. The hope is that Phase One will be completed in the fall. Much of the current playground equipment will be moved to the Little Falls Activity Center and Little Falls Recreation Area. A new basketball court will be built as part of Phase Two.

Funding for Phase One was secured by former Town Counselor, Ron Shephard, through a grant from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). While subsequent Phases will be financed through the town budget, it is hoped that additional funds will be raised via a targeted fundraising effort, including individual large and small amount tax deductible contributions, donations of specific items for the park, and money raising events at the park and in town.

The Robie Park Master Plan will create a recreation destination for everyone in the Gorham Community, from toddlers at the playground to walking paths and gardens for older folks, and everyone in between. The timeline for the completion of the entire Master Plan will take ten years, in time for Robie Park to celebrate its 100 year anniversary in 2035. Be on the lookout for the beginning of this exciting addition to our community.