Special to the Independent
If you’ve driven around Everett recently, you’ve probably noticed that our local parks are all looking their absolute best lately, with plenty of green space, freshly mowed ball fields, new playgrounds and even splash pads ready to provide some refreshment and relaxation for all. Additionally, many of our beloved summer programs are back this year, and it’s shaping up to be a great summer here in Everett.
At Rivergreen Park, Mayor DeMaria’s Summer Basketball Program kicks off at the end of June, with games starting the week of July 5th and running through August 7th. Also at Rivergreen Park, you’ll find a new canoe and kayak launch, a neatly manicured park with a football field, a playground, splash pad and walking paths that connects to the Northern Strand Community Trail. What was once a polluted former General Electric site is now one of the most beautiful places in the city!
Over at Swan Street Park, which was fully renovated in 2018, you can cool off at the splash pad, or pack a lunch and enjoy the picnic tables and unique playground. There’s also a little league field and basketball courts. At night, they have illuminated walkways for added safety.
Sacromone Park is another local favorite and houses two synthetic turf little league fields, a splash park, playground, basketball court, picnic area, bocce court, restrooms, concessions and perimeter walkways, green space and state of the art athletic field lighting.
This summer, the Mayor’s Crimson Kid’s Summer Program is back, run by Recreation Leader Mike DiPetrio. The program operates out of The Samuel Gentile Recreation Center, starting the week of July 12th and running for 6 weeks. The cost is $50 per child per week and $25 each additional child and is open to all children ages 6-13. Participants will enjoy a variety of activities includes field trips, plenty of park and playground time, exercise classes, arts and crafts, daily swimming at the pool, entertainment and more. The program is limited to 100 children per week on a first come, first serve basis and registration must be done in person at either Everett City Hall or the Everett Health Department.
The Summer Jobs, also run by DiPetrio is back this year, bigger and better than ever, with 250 kids expected. It starts July 6th and runs for 8 weeks, with kids being placed all over the city including the Department of Public Works, City Hall, Everett Police Station, Everett Public Libraries and more.
One other program of note this summer is the free lunch program, run by the YMCA. They’ll be handing out free lunches Monday through Friday at five of our city’s parks all summer long.
As things get back to “normal” and we once again gather with friends and family, be sure to spend some time at our local parks, enjoying the waterfront and green space that our Mayor has worked so hard to make available to all.