Gravino Park is located in the Town of Macedon’s historic downtown area, nestled between the Main Street shops and the historic Erie Canal corridor. Over time, the park’s infrastructure aged beyond its intended lifespan and the Town wished to transform the small community park into a regional attraction, necessitating a modernization plan.
The Town acquired land on both sides of the park, nearly tripling its size. LaBella was engaged to develop a site plan that would increase community draw by prioritizing playground design, inclusive play, and athletic facilities.
The design brings together underperforming zones, re-establishes sightlines, and navigates existing infrastructure constraints to deliver significant improvements with minimal environmental impact.
In consultation with the New York State Department of Transportation, Gravino Park was designed to enhance connectivity to the Empire State Trail by improving sidewalks that connect to an ongoing pedestrian bridge project. Given proximity to the Erie Canal, the team also consulted with the New York State Canal Corporation for support, guidance, and permitting compliance.
LaBella’s grant management team worked closely with Town staff and leadership to secure over $1,000,000 in grant funding from the New York State Department of State, New York State Canal Corporation, and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation for all three phases of the project.
Phase 1 of the project, which includes an inclusive playground, is now complete. Phase 2 is currently under construction and expected to be completed in the spring of 2026. This phase includes the conversion of the existing multi-stall bathroom facilities to individual-use restrooms, as well as installing new underground electric service and electric vehicle charging stations. Phase 3, funded through the New York Forward program, is in final design, with construction expected to begin in 2026. This phase will include a perimeter walking trail, dog park, and amphitheater.
In total, the $2.5 million improvement project will transform Gravino Park into a regional destination for residents and visitors throughout Wayne County.
