Fox Park Upgrade Done by May; Crepe Myrtles to Replace Holly

WILDWOOD – Located in the city’s heart, Fox Park awaits transformation in time for Memorial Day festivities. 
Mayor Ernie Troiano recently explained his vision for the iconic Veteran’s Walk on Feb. 14, giving a brief explanation of the project and answering a lingering question in residents’ minds: what happened to the holly trees?
According to Troiano, the holly trees were diseased and beyond saving. To complete funding, the city called an arborist to examine the trees.
Troiano assured residents and enthusiasts that crepe myrtles would be planted in the holly’s place.
“When it’s all said and done,” said Troiano, “it will be one of the prettiest parks you have ever seen.”
The selected myrtle trees will bloom red, white, and a light blue, a correlating tribute to the veterans area and wall.
The “Dough-Boy” statue will also be moved to the newly-designed area.
Refurbished tennis courts, a basketball court, and refurbished playground area encompass a large scope of the project, according to Commissioner Peter Byron.
When asked how funding is being obtained, Byron told the Herald that the city received a $500,000 grant. New landscaping will also be installed.
“It’s going to be very nice,” Byron said in a phone interview Feb. 18.
However, the total number of tennis courts will be reduced by two to accommodate the basketball court.
Byron reflected how he and many Wildwood youth grew up playing basketball and he wishes to impart the same experience to the upcoming generation.
Byron is “very passionate” about expanding Wildwood’s recreational experience for residents and visitors. “Kids” who enjoy and utilize recreational spaces are not only grade-school age but young adults. Healthy living emphasis encourages individuals of all ages to exercise and spend time outdoors.
By providing adequate recreational opportunities, Byron believes the city will benefit.
Young people will look beyond the streets for entertainment and guests will have playgrounds for their children.
Byron wants the city to “aggressively” pursue more recreational spaces.
To contact Rachel Rogish, email rrogish@cmcherald.com.