Township Committee to Hear Proposals for Memorial, Pulis Field Renovations

The Wyckoff Parks and Recreation Foundation is scheduled to make a follow-up presentation before the Wyckoff Township Committee this evening to discuss a proposed $3 million renovation project to Memorial Complex & Town Center, Pulis Fields and the Larkin House which would include installing artificial turf at Memorial and Pulis and adding lighting at Pulis.

At the Township’s last meeting on Feb. 1, Foundation President Chris Vanuga said if approved funding for the renovations could come from several forms, ranging from corporate sponsorships to recreation fees levied at the various groups that use the fields.

 “There are a couple of problems that we’re looking to solve. One is not only the quantity of the playing fields we have in the park but also the quality,” Vanuga said at the last township meeting. “The playing surface itself... the ability to have extended playing time... the ability to allow all of our residents to participate. Many programs have waiting list that if you don’t register early enough you have to wait so residents can’t take advantage of the fields.”

In addition to Vanuga, who also sits on the township’s recreation and parks committee, foundation members include vice president David Buchanan, treasurer Tom Stefany and secretary Christine Becker. The group was peppered with questions at the last meeting including queries about how installing artificial turf would impact other events that the fields now handle beyond sporting contests such as various concerts,  and the duration of the renovation process.

The committee meeting will be held in the 2nd floor Court Room, Wyckoff Memorial Town Hall at 8:00 pm. The public is invited to attend as a public Q&A session is scheduled following the presentation.