Lackawanna's Veterans Stadium is getting nearly a half-million dollars in upgrades to turn the Steel City landmark from a spring-through-fall facility into a year-round recreational destination.
Formerly called Ron Jaworski Stadium, the South Park Avenue facility has long been the home of high school and little league football and soccer teams, as well as festivals, fireworks and more. On Thursday, officials announced a $465,445 grant from the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation for major upgrades.
The grant will pay for a new 40' x 200' pavilion with a cold storage room to replace the need for tent rentals, a removable synthetic polymer ice rink and a new paved, multi-use trail featuring several pieces of fitness equipment. When the ice rink is removed, the space can be used for gatherings, roller hockey and other activities.
“Veterans Stadium is an important part of the City of Lackawanna’s recreational facilities,” said Mayor Geoff Szymanski. “With this state funding, we can further expand our offerings for city residents and draw in visitors from the surrounding area. We will be looking forward to implementing long-term equipment for our residents to use for decades to come.”
Second Ward Councilman Ronald Schultz said he is hopeful the upgrades will "be a catalyst to bring family-oriented recreation to the center of the city."