Concession Stand Proposed for Tamaques Park

Park goers at Tamaques Park may have the chance to enjoy a new spot to grab a hot dog, bottled water or ice cream in the future, under a proposal from Councilman Tom Bigosinski.

Bigosinski has proposed taking an existing building in the park near the tennis courts and bringing a concession stand to the building, similar to the concession stand at the Memorial Pool. The proposal, which would serve as a revenue source for municipal government, has been referred to the Recreation Commission for review at a future meeting.

"Like many parents, I have bought my kids a three dollar Italian ice from an ice cream truck at Gumpert, Memorial and Tamaques parks, and marveled at the incredible profit margin these vendors must enjoy," Bigosinski said. "Although sold on town property, Westfield receives no revenue from each sale of ice cream from a truck. The ice cream truck vendors pay no taxes to Westfield, and only a nominal fee to operate in town."

The building that has been proposed for the structure has restrooms and a window for a concession stand to operate. It is currently being used as a storage facility. The town recently changed over the contract for the pool concessions. The new operator, Sergio Francisco, has introduced new menu options to the snack stand, including panini, crab cake sandwiches, steak sandwiches and fruit smoothies.

As a part of the review process, Bigosinski said he has been told that the recreation department is preparing possible bids to solicit potential operators of a new snack bar. It is not known if a Tamaques snack bar would feature the same amount of options that the new pool snack bar features. In addition, the department will be conducting a review of quality of life issues impacting the surrounding neighborhood.