Berlin Falls Park begins development exploration

Berlin town officials are deciding what to do to make the Berlin Falls Park a more user-friendly space. 

The park was purchased by the town in 2016 for about 2.5 million dollars, but nothing has been built yet. However, the area has become a popular spot for bird watchers. 

"Given the proximity of town, we're only a mile from downtown, so it's quite a gem," said David Deutsch, the project coordinator. 

"Towns and cities don't really get the opportunity to have a park this close to a center where folks live," said Deutsch. 

Officials say they have collected several studies that show what kind of plant and animal species live in the area and information on the old buildings. 

"It was important for the town that we did not get another similar [chicken] plant to come in," said Mary Bohlen, administrative services director. 

"Nothing against the chicken industry, and obviously it's huge on the shore, but that particular plant was very old," said Bohlen.

Officials say it could cost the town about 600,000 dollars to demolish the main building at the front of the park, or 2.1 million dollars to rehabilitate it.

A survey has been shared on the town's website for residents to share their ideas on possible future projects. There have already been suggestions on a skate park, a wall for rock climbing, benches and trails. 

"The more that folks stay plugged in and give us their thoughts the better off our product will be from the committee to the mayor and council," said Deutsch. 

The town will be installing signs about the animals and plants that exist in the park during the coming months.

Construction is planned to take place in the next few years.