SCOTCH PLAINS – Following a request by Mayor Josh Losardo to expand the parking capacity at the popular Ponderosa Farm Park on Cooper Road, Union County officials say the project is underway and should be completed by the beginning of December.

The 20-acre, farm-themed park is a destination point, with a playground, sports fields, a picnic area and a spray pad. It is common on weekends and holidays for the park to be filled with visitors, creating a strain on the existing, 96-stall parking lot.

“There has been discussion in the past and it was deemed an absolute priority earlier this year to expand the parking capacity at Ponderosa Farms Park,” Mayor Losardo said. “That is why I requested that Union County, which owns and operates the park, to immediately identify all possibilities to expand parking. We have worked closely with the county on this project throughout this year, ensuring a workable solution in a timely manner.”

The work commenced last month; the new lot will include asphalt, striping and curbing.

Park goers can see the construction of the new parking lot when they enter the park. Rather than turning left and hoping for an available parking spot, they also will have the opportunity to turn right and use the new lot, with 58 spaces, expected to be open no later than December 5.

“I am pleased that Union County prioritized our request and has been so responsive to the needs of Scotch Plains residents,” Mayor Losardo said. “I am continually approached by fellow residents who say how much they love the park but wish it was easier to find parking, especially on busy days when sports leagues are using the fields. I’m pleased to say we now have a solution.”