Greenport Village Board Approves Private Funding for Court Revamp
The Greenport Village Board voted last week to endorse a privately funded plan to upgrade the Third Street basketball courts, a move that reflects growing demand for modern recreational facilities in the village.
The initiative, spearheaded by Tod Hart and Collin Ratsey, carries an estimated price tag of $42,570 and will introduce a suite of enhancements, including larger polycarbonate backboards, collapsible rims, heavy‑duty nets and protective pads on the support poles.
A smaller, eight‑foot hoop will also be installed to accommodate younger children, ensuring that the court remains accessible to families across the community.
Community Voices Weigh In
Resident Candice Schott described the court as a long‑standing source of joy for the village’s youth, emphasizing its role in fostering healthy activity. Shawn Buchanan, another local voice, called for a sound study to be conducted in the area, citing concerns that the upgraded facilities might generate additional noise.
Rev. Natalie Wimberly highlighted the court’s broader significance, noting that it serves as a hub for community building and youth development, especially for those who might otherwise lack safe spaces for recreation.
Patrick Brennan, Mary Bess Phillips, Sonja Reinholt Derr and John Jackson echoed the sentiment, expressing optimism that the upgrades will strengthen neighborhood ties while urging officials to monitor any potential disturbances.
Addressing Noise Concerns
In response to the community’s apprehensions, the village will commission a sound mitigation study to assess how the new equipment and increased usage might affect nearby residents. This proactive step aims to balance the benefits of the upgraded court with the need for a peaceful environment.
The Greenport Tree Committee, listed as an organizational partner on the project’s paperwork, will collaborate with village staff to ensure that any landscaping or environmental considerations are integrated into the final plan.
With the approval secured and a clear roadmap for implementation, the Third Street basketball courts are poised for a transformation that could set a benchmark for privately funded public‑space improvements in small towns across the region.