Official urges county to make improvements

NEW CASTLE, Pa. -- Lawrence County Commissioner Ed Fosnaught has fond memories of playing baseball at Park Gate.
Fosnaught urged fellow commissioners this week to use some money saved from refinancing a loan to make improvements at the park.
The county park, now known as Henry Bazzichi Park, is in Park Gate, on the Lawrence/Beaver County border, between Ellwood City and Koppel.
Fosnaught said Bazzichi, who died earlier this year, was faithful for many years in mowing the grass each week. Family members said if the county will fund improvements, they will continue mowing.
Bazzichi was active in the Park Gate community, with the American Red Cross and many Wayne Township organizations.
Although the park is only about the size of a football field, it is an important gathering place for Park Gate residents. Many other Wayne Township residents also use the park, Fosnaught said.
He said the county usually pays for routine maintenance each year, but he doesn't know how much repairs will cost.
The backstop at the baseball field had to be removed because it was in disrepair, Fosnaught said. The picnic shelter needs a new roof, and playground equipment needs replaced.