The weather outside may have been cloudy and just under 75 degrees on Wednesday afternoon, but that didn’t stop community members of all ages from flocking to the newly opened Ponderosa Park on Cooper Road in Scotch Plains.

As little ones danced under a brand new spray fountain, local parents remarked on the safety and beauty of the new facility. The new park includes walking trails, multipurpose fields for soccer or lacrosse, a variety of playground equipment and swings, and a spray fountain in the center of the play area which can be turned on and off by the user. At this time, no organized teams are permitted to play on the fields.

“I have lived in the area my whole life and driven down Cooper Road a million times, but I never knew the Ponderosa property was here,” a Westfield mom said. “The playground equipment is safe and perfect for children of all ages. I think I’m going to start having play groups here.”

The park will be lit from dawn to dusk by 15 ornamental lights. Those who may have worried about traffic obstructions on Cooper Road or pedestrian safety will be relieved to know that the park is equipped with 96 parking spaces.

The 20 acre parcel of land was purchased by the Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders through the use of a Green Acres grant and funds from the Union County Open Space reserve. Ownership of the park has been turned over to the Township of Scotch Plains. Scotch Plains will also provide maintenance for the facility.

Councilman Mickey Marcus formerly announced the opening of the park at Monday’s Scotch Plains Town Council meeting.

 “I have seen this beautiful facility myself and I know that it will be a huge asset to our town and enrich the lives of many of our residents,” Marcus said. “Our recreation committee is working with the county on coordinating a grand opening; however all are now welcome to use the facility.”