The City of Poughkeepsie is teaming up with members of The 35 Montgomery Community Coalition to offer “Summer Fun Saturdays at Eastman Park” on July 24 and July 31.
“Summer Fun Saturdays at Eastman Park” is a weekly pop-up series of games and activities launched last week to celebrate the redevelopment of the former Dutchess YMCA site into a new state-of-the-art youth center.
That project, located in front of Eastman Park, took a major step forward last week with the Dutchess County Legislature’s acceptance of the former YMCA site from the city and approval of an initial $10 million in funding for construction of the new center.
“We know it is going to take a while for the new center to be constructed,” said Mayor Rob Rolison. “The city wants to do its part by working with the 35 Montgomery Coalition to bring activities to that area now. We appreciate the way Coalition members have come together to activate Eastman Park, and we encourage families to come out these next two Saturdays to participate in all these wonderful activities.”
“The Y is very happy to be part of the Saturday morning programming at Eastman Park. Poughkeepsie is so lucky to have such a beautiful park, and it is perfect for running a variety of events,” said Heidi Kirschner, president and chief executive officer of the YMCA of Kingston & Ulster County. “There were great vibes radiating from the field. People were so friendly, and I look forward to seeing them again this week. It was super fun! I would encourage families to start their Saturdays at these events. Stop by and check it all out! “
“Summer Fun Saturdays at Eastman Park” runs from 10 a.m. to noon, with activities ranging from giant bubble making to skateboarding lessons and running clinics. A basketball clinic also will be held at the Hulme Park basketball courts at 72 Market St. (One block from Eastman Park.) There, children will practice agility skills and then work on basketball techniques.
All children must be accompanied by a parent/legal guardian at these activities.
There are also family-oriented events occurring at the Adriance Memorial Library, 93 Market St., about a half block away from Eastman Park. For a list of those activities, visit www.poklib.org/summer-saturdays
The 35 Montgomery Community Coalition — which includes YMCA of Kingston & Ulster County, DAY ONE Early Learning Community, City of Poughkeepsie; Community Matters 2 and the Poughkeepsie Public Library District — is working with the city and Dutchess County to build the vision for the new youth center in Poughkeepsie.