Commissioners Costello & Farrell cut the ribbon for the new Oxford Area Recreation Field
WEST CHESTER, PA – Chester County Commissioners Ryan Costello and Terence Farrell joined local officials, directors of the Oxford Area Recreation Authority and area residents on May 10th at a celebration marking the grand opening of the Oxford Area Recreation Fields. The event marked the completion of the first phase of the 68 acre recreational site, consisting of a multi-purpose field, a little league field, parking, loop trail, and a pavilion.
“This site is a testament to what can be accomplished when energetic citizens who want to make a difference in their communities work together toward a common goal,” said Terence Farrell, Chairman of the Chester County Board of Commissioner, who was raised in the Oxford area. “This process began more than a decade ago with a vision. Through the cooperation of county and municipal official, and the perseverance of authority directors, that vision is now becoming a reality.”
“These recreational fields will be a tremendous asset to the local communities, residents, and children for generations to come,” said Chester County Commissioner Ryan Costello. “Having worked on a park project as a Supervisor in East Vincent Township, I know how much commitment and coordination it takes to make an effort like this successful. This site will be home to a first-class recreational complex that has helped to preserve open space and will enhance the quality of life for local residents.”
Chester County has worked closely with the local municipalities in acquiring the property that compose the 68 acre site, as well as funding the first phase of the recreational area. In 2000, Chester County awarded two separate grants of $250,000 each to Oxford Borough and East Nottingham Township ($500,000 total) to help acquire the 68 acres known at that time as the Gray Farm. In 2006, Chester County awarded the Oxford Area Recreation Authority (consisting of Elk, East Nottingham, West Nottingham, and Lower Oxford Townships and Oxford Borough) an additional $250,000 for Phase 1 development.
Terence Farrell is Chairman of the Chester County Board of Commissioners. He was raised in the Oxford area and is the first Commissioner from Southern Chester County in over thirty years. Ryan Costello is a Chester County Commissioner and life-long resident of Chester County. He previously served as Recorder of Deeds in Chester County from 2008 through 2011. Costello also served 6 years on the East Vincent Township Board of Supervisors, including 4 years as Chairman of the Board. Costello is a graduate of Owen J. Roberts High School, Ursinus College, and Villanova Law School.
