Town of Tonawanda, NY – New York State Senator Jeremy J. Zellner and Assemblyman William C. Conrad III today announced $1.1 million in state funding secured to support critical upgrades at parks across the Town of Tonawanda, including major improvements to recreational facilities and infrastructure relied upon by residents throughout the community.

The funding will support projects at Ellwood Park, Heritage Park, Irvington Park, Curtis Park, Kenilworth Park, and Thurston Park, including upgrades to park restroom facilities to improve accessibility and ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The investment will also fund reconstruction of the parking lots serving the Lincoln Park Baseball Diamonds, Lincoln Park Athletic Complex, and the Donald F. Kunzelman Pavilion.

Senator Jeremy Zellner said, "This investment is about making sure the Town of Tonawanda continues to be a great place to live, work, and raise a family. From improving accessibility to upgrading heavily used recreational facilities, these projects will strengthen public spaces that residents rely on every day. I'm proud to have partnered with Assemblymember Conrad to bring this funding home and deliver results for our community."

Assemblyman William Conrad said, "In this day and age of screens and solitude, outdoor playtime is more important than ever, which is why one of my foremost priorities as an Assemblyman is to advocate for and secure support for our localities' recreation facilities and programs. Smaller governments deserve the partnership of the state to ensure services remain intact for the sake of residents' quality of life and to keep the full tax burden off the backs of local taxpayers. I am thrilled to make such an impactful investment alongside Senator Zellner, who shares this philosophy and loves the Tonawandas as much as I do. These upgrades will enhance our parks' comfort, safety, and accessibility, making them even more welcoming for everyone, regardless of age, ability, or income level. Let's all enjoy a parks and recreation summer!"

Town of Tonawanda Supervisor John Flynn said, "I am grateful to Senator Zellner and Assemblyman Conrad for securing this state investment in the town's Youth, Parks & Recreation facilities. This will result in more accessible parks with the additional improvements allowing the Town of Tonawanda to maintain its position as having the finest parks and recreation facilities in the region."

Town of Tonawanda Deputy Supervisor Gina Santa Maria said, "Today's announcement is great news for the residents of the Town of Tonawanda. We are grateful for the dedication and leadership of Assemblyman Bill Conrad and Senator Jeremy Zellner in securing $1.1 million in state funding to support improvements to our parks, recreation facilities, and community playgrounds. These investments will enhance the quality, safety, and accessibility of the spaces where our residents gather, play, and build community. This funding reflects a shared commitment to improving the quality of life for Town families, and we appreciate Assemblyman Conrad's and Senator Zellner's continued partnership and advocacy on behalf of our residents."

Town of Tonawanda Councilmember Jill O’Malley said, “We appreciate the personal relationship we have with Senator Zellner and Assemblyman Conrad. Our ability to communicate with them directly ensures we are funding the projects that best represent and benefit the needs of our residents.”

Town of Tonawanda Councilmember Carl Szarek said, "Three years ago, as we moved the aging Lincoln Park Ice Arena to the state-of-the-art complex at Paddock Park, we faced the challenge of finding a new purpose for the old arena. Today, that building serves as the Lincoln Park Field House, and thanks to Senator Jeremy Zellner and Assemblymember Bill Conrad, we're receiving $600,000 for ADA bathroom improvements at this and other parks across our community. This investment will make a real difference for the seniors and families who use these facilities every day. Jeremy and Bill understand what our community needs, from improvements inside the Field House to a new on-site parking lot that will help keep residents safe and provide reliable access. Thank you for your vision and continued support for the residents who make Tonawanda a great place to live, work, and play.