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The Weirton Board of Parks and Recreation continues to look at its options for a variety of capital improvement projects it has planned for the community's recreational properties.
The topics were among those discussed by the board during its meeting this past week, including plans to reach out to a variety of local lending institutions for the possibility of obtaining a loan to assist with plans at Marland Heights Park.
"I don't want to procrastinate," board Chair Edwin J. Bowman said.
The board discussed the possibility of having representatives of the banks, credit unions and other groups at its January meeting to further discuss plans and see what can be done. The board previously has discussed plans to demolish the Margaret Manson Weir Memorial Pool, using a portion of its materials to construct a community monument, as well as repair sidewalks, the basketball court and other amenities.
The board reflected on what the members said has been a lack of communication from Weirton City Council on various potential projects, including discussions on plans for the Starvaggi Memorial Pool.
"It's not a question of them saying no, it's that we haven't gotten an answer," Bowman said.
Bowman noted an effort by Ward 3 Councilman Fred Marsh to set aside $1 million for the pool's vessel replacement was voted down by council in November.
The board said they have not heard from council about even meeting over the projects.
"It's so frustrating," board member Doug Finton said.
The board also continues its plans for the resurfacing of portions of the Panhandle Recreational Trail, and is working with the West Virginia Division of Highways.
Bowman said he has continued reaching out to the office of U.S. Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., and there is hope he will be able to arrange for funding in 2023.
"He's very encouraged he can get the money next year," Bowman said.
Parks Director Coty Shingle reported Phase 1 of the south wall repair at the Millsop Community Center is nearing completion. Additional work on the interior of the building was required, which resulted in the temporary drainage of the center's pool. The pool is back in operation at this time.
Shingle also relayed that while many projects would be unavailable to start in the next few months, because of weather, there are some items the board can begin relating to improvements at the Edwin J. Bowman Baseball Field, which is being funded through a Land Water Conservation Fund grant.
Those include improvements to accessibility at the field for people with special needs.