Scranton City Council Authorized Connell Park Upgrades
The city approved an $892,883 contract with Kobalt Construction for new park facilities.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in City Hall
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Scranton City Council has authorized a contract to begin significant improvements at the 20-acre Connell Park. The project will introduce new playground equipment, basketball courts, and a bicycle pump track to the site.
Why it matters
The project follows a 2021 Recreation Needs Assessment and Master Plan that identified specific areas for facility upgrades. It aligns with the city's broader initiative to revitalize its park infrastructure through targeted federal, state, and local funding.
The $1,061,988 total project budget is supported by $381,594 in federal grants, $149,400 in state funding, and $530,994 in city matching funds. This follows more than $26 million in total park system improvements spent by Scranton since 2021.
The players
Scranton City Council
This is the primary legislative body responsible for governing the city and managing municipal infrastructure projects.
Kobalt Construction
This is the private firm selected by the city to execute the infrastructure improvements at Connell Park.
Anthracite Bicycle Coalition
This organization operates a bicycle cooperative within a dedicated building located on the park grounds.
The details
Beyond traditional recreational facilities like basketball courts and playgrounds, the park will receive natural stormwater management features and a bicycle pump track. This work complements the $1.2 million in pool renovations completed at the park in 2025.
Timeline
In 2021, the city completed a recreation master plan.
During 2025, Scranton completed $1.2 million in pool renovations at the park.
On September 22, 2026, the council introduced the legislation.
On September 29, 2026, the City Council adopted the contract resolution.
Need to Know
The Connell Park project directly follows the priorities set forth in the 2021 Recreation Needs Assessment and Master Plan. This investment is part of a larger ongoing effort to modernize Scranton's public spaces according to that long-term strategic guide.
Residents can expect future construction activity at Connell Park, which serves as the city's third-largest park. These improvements are funded through established grant programs rather than additional local tax levies.
The takeaway
Scranton continues to leverage a mix of federal and state grants to fund its multi-year park revitalization program. The latest investment reflects a sustained citywide strategy to prioritize local recreational infrastructure.
Further reading
For more information on municipal governance and public works, visit the City Hall section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Scranton Times-Tribune.
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