The Town Council has approved another $1.47 million for renovations to Sutton Park, bringing the total budget allocated, primarily toward updating the skate park, to about $2.5 million. On Tuesday, councilors were in agreement about improving the park, but there were differing opinions regarding the extent of the work and the timing of the renovations. In its budget for fiscal year 2022, the council included $1.05 million for Sutton Park renovations — $850,000 from American Rescue Plan funds and another $200,000 from the state’s local capital improvement program. The funds were originally meant to upgrade the skate park, install new lights and replace the playground. However, following public feedback, additional desired changes and increased labor and materials costs were incorporated into the plan, hiking the price tag to about $4.15 million. Town Manager John Burt said the park improvements are meant to be a long-term plan and will not be completed all at once.
