Most of Stephens Field is torn up, but the outlines of the reimagined waterfront park are emerging as the long-anticipated $5 million project moves toward a planned mid-July finish.
Signs of progress at the site are obvious as work – which began in October – picks up steam with the arrival of warmer weather. Concrete and fencing are in place for new tennis and pickleball courts. A boat-shaped retaining wall for the new playground is set. A wooden footbridge that will span a stream flowing from the duck pond sits on the ground, waiting for its permanent placement. The new pedestrian entrance from Sandwich Street is cleared, opening a view of the park and harbor. And across the field, drainage pipes, catch basins, curbing, and piles of rubble speak to the massive site work that is at the core of the project.
“Most of this project is not something fun you can play on, but it’s all the work that will eventually be out of sight,” said David Gould, director of the town’s Energy and Environment Department, who is overseeing the project. “There is a lot of subsurface work, to remove what was here, install new utilities, and a drainage system that can handle all of the water that flows on the site.”
The remade Stephens Field will be a blend of old and new. The ballfield will get a new backstop, bleachers, and fencing, while the basketball court will be resurfaced and get new hoops.
The old snack shack, tennis courts, and playground structures are gone, clearing the area closest to the shoreline. A new playground, and a concession building with a pavilion and restrooms will be built further inland. A concrete apron will be poured near the water’s edge to make it easier to launch small watercraft.
One important note: The park has long been a popular spot for viewing the Fourth of July Fireworks, which are set off in the harbor. But because of the ongoing work, Stephens Field will be closed to the public on July 4 this year.
The project is funded by $4 million in Community Preservation Act funds and $1 million in federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding.
R.A.D. Sports Inc. of Rockland is the primary contractor, responsible for the site work, drainage, environmental remediation, and utility infrastructure. O’Brien & Sons of Medway is building the new playground, concession stand, and installing picnic tables, benches, and bicycle racks.
See below for more photos.
Michael Cohen can be reached at michael@plymouthindependent.org.
