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Camp Dawson improvements are on the way
(by Allison Cassara/Correspondent - September 17, 2008)
A motion to spend funds for improvement in parking and driveway conditions at Camp Dawson in Towaco passed unanimously during the Montville Township Committee on Sept. 9.
Township engineer Anthony Barile presented the plans, which include a circular driveway and paved parking lot with space for 150 cars. In addition, the hill adjacent to the parking lot - where additional traffic usually parks - will be graded.
“The traffic circle makes it safer and provides a drop-off for parents and buses,” said Barile. “Construction could possibly start at the end of the winter months, if the temperature is mild.”
Mayor Deborah Nielson also commented on verbal altercations she has witnessed in the parking lot due to driver frustrations and suggested an increase in police presence at Camp Dawson.
“Just as friendly members of the community,” suggested Nielson, who noted Parsippany Police monitor sports fields during large tournaments.
In addition, the committee addressed concerns about noise levels coming from the field during the evening. While the township’s noise ordinance goes into effect at 10 p.m., Camp Dawson does not close until 10:30 p.m.
“My husband and I find the noise very offensive,” said Francis Work, a township resident who attended the meeting to address the mayor and committee members on the issue. “It infringes on our rights.”
Work, who lives near Camp Dawson, believes the noises come from men’s soccer games, whose participants blow air horns and whistles during late night games. She described her neighborhood as a very quiet area and that she was not alone in her noise complaints.
The committee referred the noise issue and conflicts in timeframe to the recreational committee, which will hold its next regular meeting on Oct. 10.
Future plans for the Jacksonville Road turf fields include security lights, fencing, and handicap-accessible ramps that meet regulations set by the Americans with Disability Act.
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