East Bay Park

If you are looking for a quiet place to relax then East Bay Park is right up your alley.  With the peaceful environment and beautiful landscape, it's sure to help you get your mind off things or blast you off on a summer daydream. However, if you are up for a game of tennis, basketball or bocce, then you can enjoy that too.

It seems East Bay Park is really for everyone. Between the playground, the tennis and basketball courts and the picnic areas, it's the Renaissance park of Bellmore.

As I walked through the park I couldn't get over all the lush trees and decent-sized fields. For a small park it sure packs some heavy duty entertaining. I looked on as two young boys were playing baseball, a group of teens were ending a game of basketball and a couple pre-schoolers were on the swings. Even though there wasn't much going on, the park was full of life.

It also has a bathroom and water fountains. A bocce court was also added over the years. I entered the park on Ellen Road, but there is a back entrance off Karen Street as well. There is plenty parking available and it closes at dark like most parks. Even if you're in the mood for a little stroll, the East Bay Park paths will suit you well. Get some exercise, breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the scenery.

The park was built in the 1970s by the East Bay Civic Association and is a Town of Hempstead park. At first there were a few different opinions on what to include in the construction. The tennis and basketball courts were not looking good. Especially, since JFK High School already had them. The noise factor was also a concern for the people residing in the vicinity. After a meeting with the town and nearby residents, it was decided that the park would be a full facility, courts and all.

The amount of trees in the park were a vital component considering the noise issue.  They would help to minimize the sound while providing tons of shade. The cost was in the millions and it remains the largest 3 percent builder's park in the Town of Hempstead. This means a portion of the land was donated to the community from the contractor. It was created with the help of other Bellmore residents so its no surprise that community dedication reflects in all that lives there.  

As an artist I can appreciate the natural and vibrant environment East Bay Park provides. In addition, its clean, accessible and free! What else could you ask for.