Mayor Celebrates West Utica Parks Renovations at Hirt Playground
Mayor Michael P. Galime today announced that the City of Utica will celebrate the completion of renovations at Hirt Playground with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at 3:30 p.m. Community members are invited to attend and participate in a variety of family-friendly activities following the ceremony.
The improvements were funded through Community Development Block Grant–Coronavirus (CDBG-CV) funding and are part of Mayor Galime’s initiative to focus on parks embedded within our neighborhoods across Utica, enhancing parks and recreational opportunities.
The projects included several upgrades designed to improve safety, accessibility, and the overall visitor experience, including:
- New poured-in-place safety surfacing
- New playground equipment for children ages 5–12
- Resurfaced pathways throughout the playground area
- Fence improvements
- New entrance signage at Sunset Avenue and Warren Street
- Tree trimming and maintenance
The City partnered with 4Elements Studio throughout the project to help create a more accessible and welcoming space for students and families while incorporating artistic elements into the park environment.
“Bringing this park back to life with modern play equipment and an enhanced play surfaces is an absolute joy to see,” stated Mayor Galime. He continued to add that, “While we are working on parks across West Utica this summer, the added collaboration with 4Elements Studio demonstrates genuine engagement in the path of the district.”
In addition to the playground improvements, the ribbon-cutting celebration will feature a variety of free community activities organized by 4Elements Studio and local partners. Following the ceremony, attendees will be invited to participate in:
- Hands-on art projects with tables and easels set up throughout the park
- A community drumming circle
- The Sound Escape Music Experience hosted by The Art Thing Collaborative
- Bicycle repair demonstrations provided by Utica Bike Rescue
Vartan Poghosian, Director of Arts Education, said: “We will engage families through 4 Elements Studio’s creative programming in Hirt Park, fostering creativity, connection, and a stronger community for all.”
Residents are encouraged to attend the ribbon-cutting ceremony and stay for the afternoon’s activities celebrating the completion of the project and the continued revitalization of Utica’s parks and public spaces.
