Oct. 16, 2013:  Westchester County Executive Robert P. Astorino's announcement on October 10 of a long-term management agreement for Scout Field, a county-owned park located partially in Bronxville, Mount Vernon, and Yonkers, prompted Mayor Mary Marvin to describe the new plan as "a win-win on every level and it can only get better."

Not only will the agreement guarantee continued recreational activities and programs for local residents, it will also provide for construction of a new grass youth soccer field with an irrigation system.

Marvin emphasized that The Bronxville School will still have all the uses of Scout Field that it has had, and more, because of the capital improvements planned for the fields.  "We’re working with the school to make sure their needs are met," she said.

Westchester County’s $600,000 capital investment will cover construction of the soccer field and its irrigation system. A $250,000 capital contribution from the Town of Eastchester will provide for reconfiguration of the park entrance and parking, as well as road resurfacing.

Under the agreement, the Town of Eastchester will operate Scout Field as a licensee of the county and take responsibility for day-to-day park maintenance. Marvin explained that, under the previous inter-municipal agreement with the City of Mount Vernon, the village got about half the use of the park but bore 100% of the cost of to maintain it.

"This is a much better arrangement," Marvin said. "Everybody is chipping in, in exchange for using the field space."  She noted that the village will take responsibility for trash pick-up and plowing.

To complete the Scout Field agreement, Marvin explained, the Village of Bronxville will sign a sub-agreement with the Town of Eastchester spelling out privileges and responsibilities.

"It really is a win-win," Marvin said, "and we're very pleased to be partnering with Eastchester."

Pictured here:  A playing field on Scout Field.

Photo by M. Lee