The Town of McCandless will be expanding greenspace for future park offerings by buying more than 17 acres of land. This is one of the largest acquisitions of Town-owned land since 1976, when the adjacent Potter Park property was donated.
On April 28, Town Council unanimously approved entering into a purchase agreement with Janet L. Maier for property located at 1201 Van Drive, located just west of Potter Park, for $475,000.
“This acquisition of land is a vital investment in our community’s future. This space will foster recreation and environmental stewardship, ensuring all residents have access to a safe, vibrant area for generations to come,” said Town Council President Jason Singer.
With Potter Park being directly adjacent to this land, the new purchase will create a nearly 30-acre plot of contiguous green space.
A major priority for Town Council is expanding the access of park and recreation lands for residents, and this acquisition will be a key component. The purchase of this parcel comes as the Town is undergoing its Comprehensive Parks Plan to develop Master Site Plans for its current parks and green spaces, analyze existing and future connections, programs and initiatives.
The new land serves as a blank canvas for residents to determine what should be offered on it in the future. As a part of the current Comprehensive Parks Plan process, the Town and its consultant, Pashek+MTR, are seeking input from the public at upcoming public meetings and focus groups. The next public input meeting is taking place on Thursday, June 19 from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m. at the Devlin Pavilion (behind Town Hall).
"We will listen to the community and see what the opportunities are as we move forward," said Heather Cuyler, recreation planner for Pashek+MTR.