Exciting changes are underway at Hedgehog Park! The Town has initiated a plan to address the persistent overcrowding issues. As part of this, a contractor has recently completed a fence running the length of the park along Route 38, marking the first step towards a more peaceful and enjoyable park experience.
Visitors may purchase an annual pass at the Ingram Senior Center. The fee for the yearly pass for Salem residents will be $30, and for non-Salem residents, it will be $60. Guests can purchase day passes at the gate. The resident fee is $10 per vehicle; non-residents pay $20. Vehicle drivers will be given colored wristbands upon entrance to the park. The new fee entrance process will begin Saturday, May 25, Memorial Day weekend.
With the new regulations, only vehicles will be allowed entry, and there will be no walk-ins, ensuring a more controlled and secure environment. This measure and having only 52 parking spaces will help maintain the park’s occupancy to under 225 people, enhancing the overall park experience.
Since 1979, the Town of Salem has applied for and accepted federal grants to improve the park. In 1979, a Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) grant of $24,170.00 was accepted by the Town. In 2010, a grant of $21,924.00 was accepted for the addition of a skate park. These grants mandate that the park be open to the public. The latest LWCF $204,000 grant will be used to build an ADA and ABA approved path around the pond and throughout the park.
Future improvements will include demolishing the current pavilion and building several concrete pads with open-air sunshades, tables, and grills. Many of these shaded areas will be along Route 38.
Soon, the skateboard obstacles will be removed and replaced with a basketball court. A local company will remove the items at no cost. The court will be made of dropdown panels, allowing it to be built in just days. The Salem Town Council will need to approve the basketball court donation from the Friends of Salem Recreation. The Friends of Salem Recreation will be at the May 20th meeting to present the plan and the donation for the basketball court. Future plans do include building a skateboard park within the park
Marquis Management has generously donated $9,770.60 for a 16′ x 10′ storage shelter for the park attendant. At a recent Town Council meeting, Community Services Director Katie Duffey commended Marquis Management for their years of commitment to enhancing the park, a testament to our community’s dedication to this shared space.
Once these changes are completed, Hedgehog Pond Park will be a family-friendly place to relax, refresh, and enjoy again.
