From Landfill to Community Park

Nearly 20 years ago, then-Seekonk Library Board of Trustees President Ken Lagerquist came up with the idea to transform the former landfill behind the into a community park. He quickly gained a supporter in Library Director Sharon St. Hilaire. Both have since died, but their spirits were present on Saturday at the opening of Seekonk Meadows—the town's first public park.

The nine-acre park includes drought-resistant vegetation, pathways and a gazebo to provide shade. With a sensitive rubber membrane sitting just 20 inches below the ground to cover the trash that has been mixed with added soil, uses of the property are limited. No active recreation, motorized vehicles or large trees with roots that could cause havoc are allowed. But there is still much that can be enjoyed at the park.

"What we can do and what we support doing is passive recreation, which is gentle use of the land," said Cheryl Faria, chair of the Meadows Management Committee, as she guided the first tour of the park. "This includes walking, looking at wildlife, watching the birds—basically enjoying the great outdoors."  

Go here to learn more information about Seekonk Meadows.