Parks And Recreation Director Retiring In Northampton Township

NORTHAMPTON TOWNSHIP, PA —The long-time director of the township's parks and recreation department is retiring after 34 years at the helm.

Nancy Opalka was honored by township supervisors at its meeting last week just after the township celebrated its 300th anniversary.

Supervisors Chairman Adam Selisker made the announcement right after the anniversary's festivities concluded, saying "we wanted to honor her in a special way."

He turned the microphone over to Supervisor Kim Rose who proceeded to rattle off a lengthy list of accomplishments by Opalka.

She said Opalka joined the township as parks and recreation director in 1988 with a full-time staff of two people and a department that offered 13 pre-school and six youth programs, two adult sports leagues, three exercise classes, three summer camps and three-to-four special events each week for 31,000 residents.

"She followed a path of growth and careful planning and implementation with enthusiasm to make parks and recreation a gem in Bucks County," Rose said.

During a span of 34 years, Opalka now has 10 full-time employees, 100 seasonal summer employees and generated $1.5 million in revenue for the township in 2017, Rose said.

"Nancy works beyond the scope of her position," Rose stated.

Rose outlined some of Opalka's achievements:

• Transforming the former township library that was part of the Nike missile base barracks through renovations in 2001 into a recreation center boasting two offices, a kitchen, four pre-school classrooms and a multi-purpose room that provides more than 100 programs annually and serves 108,000 people.
• Developing the 89-acre Northampton Township Municipal Park, which once served as the Warminster Naval Air Station. The township acquired the property from the federal government, Rose said.
• Adding parking lots, fields, walking trails and tennis and basketball courts, and a hockey rink to the park.
• Creating the Miracle League of Northampton Township in 2010. A groundbreaking was held in 2011 for individuals with special needs to play sports. A playground was opened in September.
• Opening a butterfly garden to offer the community a place for reflection. Since its inception, 130 memorials have been designated.
• Working out an agreement with the Northampton Country Club for a swim club.

"It has been my special honor. Nancy, you're love and dedication have been endless," Rose said. "You leave behind a legacy and we wish you all the best."

Rose announced too that Opalka was going to become a grandmother.

"That will be your best job ever," Rose said.

She then read a proclamation recognizing Opalka for her "lasting contributions" during her tenure. She was then presented with flowers.

"All I can say is thank you and that I'm speechless," a choked-up Opalka said. "I appreciate the opportunity to develop this program."