Hempstead Town Makes Answering Nature's Call Better

When you're out enjoying nature at one of the Town of Hempstead parks, you can now answer the call of nature without worry. Town Supervisor Anthony Santino announced that the town has spent more than $1 million to upgrade the bathrooms at town parks and facilities.

The improvements included epoxy coating on floors and walls, new partitions, LED lighting, fresh paint and the replacement of all sinks, toilets, urinals, hand dryers and mirrors. The town says it's the first major renovation the park restrooms have had in more than 20 years.

"Town parks are frequented by many of our residents," said Santino. "Hempstead Town is dedicated to providing the very best quality service at all our installations. We’re upgrading our facilities so residents can continue to enjoy carefree days with good quality conveniences at our parks."

Tthe town has renovated 36 bathrooms and 8 locker rooms. Among the parks that have received renovations are Newbridge Road Park in Bellmore, Averill Boulevard Pool in Elmont, Harold Walker Park in Lakeview, Seaman’s Neck Park in Seaford, Rath Park in Franklin Square, Echo Park in West Hempstead and all Levittown pools. Newbridge Road Park has received additional renovations to the exterior of the Newbridge Ice Arena, and the coping stones at the Levittown pools have received a fresh, protective epoxy coating.

To be more environmentally friendly, all restrooms will be retrofitted with LED lighting, which last longer than incandescent bulbs and use less energy. Additionally, the town is experimenting with waterless urinals at Rath Park. The town utilized in-house labor for the installation of all fixtures including sinks, toilets, urinals, hand dryers and mirrors.

In total, the project costs the town $1,255,300.

"Restrooms are often taken for granted," Councilman Steve D’Esposito said. "We’re upgrading these important amenities because no one should need to worry when nature calls."

Photo: Town of Hempstead