By Greg Ellison

(March 17, 2022) The long-desired addition of ping pong at Burbage Park was approved by the Berlin Town Council on Monday.

In November, the council authorized the nonprofit We Heart Berlin to purchase ping pong tables and equipment ahead of receiving formal approval.

We Heart Berlin Vice-President Jeff Smith presented final project renderings during the council meeting on Monday.

“We already have tables [and are] just waiting for the town’s approval,” he said. “We’re really excited to get it underway.”

Project plans include two ping pong tables, parking and a brick retaining wall running parallel to William Street.

Council member Shaneka Nichols asked if the addition of the “Tables at Burbage Park” would reduce green space at the site.

Photo courtesy
Town of Berlin
Project renderings for the “Tables at Burbage Park” were approved this week by the Berlin Town Council.

Smith said the impact should be minimal.

“It’s just the tables … everything else will be grass,” he said.

Parks Commission Chair Mike Wiley said the bulk of comments received on the project have been positive.

“I haven’t heard too many concerns,” he said.

Wiley said the consensus was that residents were glad to see enhanced uses for the pocket park area.

“People said they didn’t even know there was a park there,” he said.

Council member Jay Knerr asked if the brickwork would be set in sand, as opposed to mortar, which should ease future maintenance.

Wiley said the need to ensure that the brick would remain in place had been discussed.

“One of the concerns was it could become unlevel, as far as people when they’re playing, tripping,” he said.

Speaking of bricks, Smith noted We Heart Berlin is currently offering commemorative bricks, which would be installed on site, for $100.

“We are also selling names on bricks for anyone interested in donating to support the park,” he said.

To purchase a personalized brick, visit weheartberlin.org and click the donate button.