LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commemorating the 100th Anniversary of Proctor
Park in Utica, New York

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that the quality of
life of the citizens of the State of New York is greatly enriched by the
availability of exceptional recreational facilities; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commem-
orate the 100th Anniversary of Proctor Park in Utica, New York; and
WHEREAS, Named for Frederick T. Proctor, this large city park of 500
acres was donated to the city of Utica by the Proctor family in 1923;
the famous landscape architect, Frederick Law Olmstead, who designed
Central Park in New York City, was instrumental in designing this park;
and
WHEREAS, Proctor Park provides all of the usual facilities for activ-
ities such as baseball, softball, basketball, soccer, and football and a
beautiful new children's play area right next to Culver Avenue is one of
the results of a recent facelift begun in 1994; during renovation a pond
built in 1909 was discovered and refurbished with help from Langdon
Trust; and
WHEREAS, Starch Factory Creek winds along the whole length of the main
section of Proctor Park through natural riparian vegetation and there
are some impressive trees all along; one can enjoy a diversity of walks
along various sections of the creek owing to the large size of the park;
and
WHEREAS, Other recent improvement projects at Proctor Park include the
installation of a new butterfly garden and a new fence, while work is
under way to plant additional trees around the walking trail; and
WHEREAS, A second area that is considered part of Proctor Park is
separately located off Valley View Road and is almost completely
forested; a road meanders through the forest all the way to the top of
the slope and provides for an excellent natural experience; and
WHEREAS, In addition, Frederick T. Proctor and Thomas R. Proctor Parks
were recently included in the New York State and National Registers of
Historic Places, following three years of work by dedicated local
departments and agencies; and
WHEREAS, To celebrate the 100th Anniversary of Proctor Park, the City
of Utica, New York, will move its annual Fourth of July festivities to
T.R. Proctor Park; the event will feature an all-day party with live
entertainment throughout the day and a food court with signature dishes
from throughout the Mohawk Valley; and
WHEREAS, Other events at the 100th Anniversary celebration of Proctor
Park will include: the annual Fourth of July parade with grand marshal
Matt Hamill, a Utica native and highly ranked MMA fighter in the Ulti-
mate Fighting Championship; the final round of the Miss Greater Utica
pageant; a carnival for children; a softball game between the Utica fire
and police departments; and a fireworks display; and
WHEREAS, Throughout the seasons, Proctor Park is a destination much
appreciated by the residents of Utica, New York, and visitors who seek
the historical, cultural, and recreational resources of the area; it is
a source of pride and community heritage to all the people of Oneida
County; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 100th Anniversary of Proctor Park in Utica, New York;
and be it further

RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to the Mayor of Utica, New York, David Roefaro, and the City
Parks and Recreation Commissioner, David Short.