Keith Lane Park in West Islip Gets A Complete Make-Over

The Keith Lane Park, West Islip got a complete make-over thanks to the dedicated efforts of Matthew Mastroianni, Eagle Scout Candidate from Troop 95 in West Islip and over 80 volunteers.

The planning for this Eagle Scout project started last year and Matthew worked closely with the Town of Islip in preparing for this large assignment. After hosting a successful car wash / bake sale in September, Matthew was able to raise the funds needed to purchase the sand, weed blanket and supplies for the project.

The work began on a rainy Saturday (10.11.14) with the installation of a weed barrier over the current park surface. This was followed by a fresh layer of sand to cover the entire park surface (over 50 yards of sand). The heavy lifting of the sand was done with the help of Vincent Pascarella, from Pascarella and Son Construction with his bobcat while the volunteers helped shovel, rake and level the massive park surface.

While the sand was being moved, additional volunteers from Troop 95 and the community were trimming the weeds, over-grown plants and trees on the park perimeter. The team from the West Islip Beautification Society was also on hand to help with this task and planted a number of perennials, bulbs and shrubs. The project team also got a visit from Steve Flotteron, Town of Islip Councilman and Ken Gessek, from the Town of Islip Parks Department. They were very impressed with the work being done while the rain was coming down on the volunteers.

The sun returned on Sunday (10.12.14) and work continued with the painting of the 2 swing sets and climbing structures. Additional plantings were installed along with top soil, mulch and grass seed. The park now looks brand new.

The next time you are driving down Keith Lane stop by and check out the park. You will be pleasantly surprised by the transformation.

Article/photos submitted by Mark Mastroianni, Assistant Scout Master, Troop 95