Aug. 8, 2008 — The bleachers are ready to be filled with cheering fans. The baseball diamond and outfield are perfectly groomed. The new concession stand and restrooms are sparkling and bright. The basketball court is clean and freshly painted. Everything is all set for the public's enjoyment at the new and improved Estate La Valle Recreation Park.
More than 50 government officials and locals were out on the north shore Friday to see firsthand the upgrades at a re-dedication ceremony at the park.
The park sits on a hillside with a vista of the aquamarine Caribbean Sea. At one time that hillside was a goat pasture. In the late 1970s the pasture changed, the goats were removed, the high grass was cut and construction of basketballs courts began.
"This has been a work in progress for more than 25 years," said Roy Canto, territorial director of planning and development. "But all of this couldn't have been done without the heavy lobbying of Delta Harris."
Harris lobbied the 26th legislature for funding for upgrading and renovation of the park. Bill 6890 was passed with the help of Sens. Usie Richards and Juan Figueroa-Serville and garnered $315,000 in funds.
Members of the Estate La Valle Development presented Harris with a plaque in appreciation of her work for the park. Esmerelda Cornelius, Harris' mother, had the honor of cutting the ribbon.
The 48 year-old Harris has spent her whole life in LaValle. She said she has wonderful memories of growing up and playing in the area. And from those memories grew her love and caring for the park.
"I am doing this to let kids know there are people working for them," Harris said.
St. Claire Williams, commissioner of the Department of Housing, Parks and Recreation (DHPR) told the group that Harris comes out and works by herself, cutting grass and such to keep the park up to par.
"We've told her she doesn't have to do the upkeep, we will take care of that," Williams said. "We pledge the department will continue to work with residents." He said he wants people in the area to really utilize the park and take care of it.
"I'm going to die taking care of LaValle," quipped Harris.
The renovations were done with collaborative work from the Department of Natural Resources, Water and Power Authority, DHPR and the Department of Public Works.
A major part of funding was used for the handicapped-accessible restrooms that have ceramic tiled walls and floors, three stalls and double sink vanities. A well-equipped concession stand is ready for people to get refreshments during games.
"More than 25 years to get the restrooms was too much," Harris said. She said people used the bush for way too long.
"In collaboration with residents and the legislature we have made a commitment to protect the facilities with money set aside for maintenance," Lt. Gov. Gregory Francis said.
Harris said she hopes they still have some funds left for lights for the baseball field.
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