Isn’t it wonderful that public swimming returned to Winchester? This is Borggaard Beach. It is a place with a story of revitalization and community spirit.
In the early 1990s Clarence Borggaard and Randy Schwartz aimed to improve public access to this beach. They wanted to bring back public swimming to Winchester residents. Almost 20 years later, Elizabeth Angelino and the Family Action Network of Winchester had the same goal.
Angelino wanted to revitalize the beach. She hoped to provide public access to the water. This would help revitalize the local economy by keeping people local. Many residents cannot afford boat or swim clubs. There is a seven-year waiting list for each club anyway.
Borggaard Beach now houses a splash park. The Splash Park at Borggaard Beach is a 1000 square foot facility. The Family Action Network of Winchester planned it for over a year. Construction was ready to begin.
The $189000 project was sent out to contractors for bidding. Construction could take six to eight weeks. Angelino hoped residents would enjoy the splash park before the season ended.
The splash park has amenities for ages up to 14. Research showed it provides a place for seniors to beat the heat. It is located right next to senior housing. It is a community gathering place. People without air conditioning can enjoy the summer here.
Angelino and FAN organized more than a dozen fundraisers. They raised 70 percent of the project cost. Over 800 private donations came from Winchester residents. It shows the community supports the project. It was a great collaboration between the town and FAN.
Borggaard Beach offers summer fun. It is more than just a beach. It shows what a community can achieve when working together.