Princeton Reviews Community Park South Master Plan With Tennis Courts, Pavilion

PRINCETON, NJ — On Monday, Council heard a presentation of the Community Park South concept plan, by consulting firm, Bowman / Mahan Rykiel Associates Inc.

The goal of the presentation was to present a master plan update on the project. A separate bid document will be made for all three phases.

The consulting firm was tasked with the project in early 2025, which was prepared under a separate contract.

A representative of the firm said the master plan for the park was developed through multiple meetings and iterations with recreation and engineering, and it has received positive feedback from stakeholders.

The plan aims to optimize the site's existing features, including tree infrastructure, and provide additional ADA access, while also consolidating uses and improving connectivity.

The design includes a central pavilion with a restroom facility, flexible lawn space, and various recreational areas, such as tennis courts, pickle ball courts, and a dog park.

A total of 12 tennis courts and six pickleball courts have been planned. Community gathering spaces have been scattered around the park, with the main one being the pavilion and smaller spaces located around the site.

The plan incorporates green infrastructure, including bio retention rain gardens, and proposes tree plantings, with the option to use larger trees to reduce waiting time for shade.

The concept plan also allows for sport lighting to be included in certain areas, but the decision on which areas to prioritize will depend on budgetary concerns

Councilman David Cohen said the new plan is “much improved” with all elements needed for a community.

Councilwoman Michelle Pirone Lambros said the Municipality was looking at ways to finding ways to raise money for the $25 million project, potentially through state funding, county funding, grants, and a 501c3 organization.

The next steps include moving forward with construction documents and phasing, with a target of mid-to-end of September for the 30 percent set, and then proceeding with value engineering and preparing three separate bid documents for the phases.

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