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5 Must-Know Updates For Cheshire Parks And Recreation CT In 2025: Bartlem Park’s Major Award, New Fees, And Summer Camp Secrets

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The Cheshire Parks and Recreation Department (CPRD) is currently operating at full capacity, with significant updates and new programs rolling out for the 2025 calendar year, solidifying its role as a vital hub for community engagement and healthy living across the Town of Cheshire, Connecticut. The department, which manages hundreds of recreational programs, services, and events for all ages, is making headlines with a prestigious national award for one of its flagship facilities, while also implementing important administrative changes that residents need to know about right now.

As of late 2025, the most exciting news is the recognition of Bartlem Park, which has been selected as the 2025 Park of Merit by the Connecticut Recreation and Parks Association (CRPA), an accolade that celebrates excellence in park management and community impact. This recognition underscores the quality of facilities and programming available to residents, from major events like the Bartlem Beats Summer Concert Series to essential youth services and therapeutic recreation options. The following guide details the most critical updates, new fees, and program highlights you need to navigate Cheshire’s recreational landscape in the coming year.

Cheshire Parks and Recreation Department: Key Personnel and Contact Information

The success of the Cheshire Parks and Recreation Department is driven by a dedicated team committed to maintaining the town's extensive network of parks, trails, and recreational facilities. Understanding the structure and key contacts is essential for residents looking to register for programs, rent facilities, or provide feedback.

  • Department Headquarters: Harmon Leonard Jr. Youth Center, 559 South Main Street, Cheshire, CT 06410.
  • Director: John Gawlak. Mr. Gawlak, a Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP), leads the department, having previously served as the Parks and Recreation Director for Wallingford.
  • Assistant to the Director: Stephanie Dunn.
  • Program Supervisor: Elizabeth Mayne.
  • Primary Contact: Phone: (203) 272-2743 | Email: recreation@cheshirect.gov.
  • Online Registration: All program registration, facility rentals, and brochure access are handled through the official Cheshire Activities MyRec.com portal.

The department operates within the Town of Cheshire’s government structure, ensuring that all recreational planning aligns with community needs and Town Council approvals, such as recent discussions regarding facility use and fee structures.

Major Facility Updates and New Fee Structure for 2025

The CPRD manages several high-profile parks and facilities, including Bartlem Park, Cheshire Park, Mixville Park, and Lock 12. Two major administrative changes are set to take effect, impacting facility rentals and access for residents.

1. Bartlem Park Wins 2025 Park of Merit Award

Bartlem Park, located at 520 South Main Street, has received the highest honor from the Connecticut Recreation and Parks Association (CRPA), being named the 2025 Park of Merit. This award highlights the park's exceptional design, maintenance, and the quality of programs it hosts. The park features a state-of-the-art turf field, multiple baseball and softball fields, and a popular pavilion area, making it the premier active recreation destination in Cheshire.

2. New Pavilion Rental Fees Effective July 1, 2025

The department has announced an update to its facility rental rates, which will take effect on July 1, 2025. This change primarily affects pavilion rentals at three key locations: Bartlem Park, Cheshire Park, and Lock 12.

  • Affected Facilities: Bartlem Park Pavilion, Cheshire Park Pavilion, and Lock 12 Pavilion.
  • Fee Change: The daily rental rate for these pavilions will increase from the current rate of $150.00 to a new rate of $250.00.
  • Senior Waivers: In a positive move for community support, the Town Council recently approved an amendment that waives certain park fees for seniors, aiming to enhance accessibility for older residents.

Residents planning events or gatherings are encouraged to review the Facility Use Request Application Process and secure their reservations well in advance, especially for high-demand summer weekends.

Essential Programs and Recreational Opportunities

Beyond its major parks, the CPRD is known for its diverse and inclusive programming, running hundreds of activities throughout the year. Two areas seeing significant focus are youth summer camps and specialized therapeutic services.

The Thrills of Mixville Adventure Camp

The Mixville Recreation Area, situated on Notch Road near the Cheshire/Prospect town line, is home to the highly anticipated Mixville Adventure Camp. This popular summer camp is designed for younger residents and offers a traditional, fun-filled experience.

  • Activities: Campers enjoy a variety of activities, including daily swimming at the Community Pool, simple sports, arts and crafts, and outdoor games.
  • Themed Weeks: To keep the experience fresh and exciting, the camp features unique themed weeks, such as "Wild Safari," "Shark Week," and "Out to Sea."
  • Registration: The Mixville Adventure Camp Guide for 2025, which includes all policies and registration details, is available on the Cheshire Activities website.

Mixville Park itself is a fantastic passive recreation area, also hosting the annual Mixville Muck Run in the spring, a challenging and fun obstacle course event.

Inclusion Through Therapeutic Recreation (TR) Programs

A cornerstone of the department's mission is its commitment to inclusion, highlighted by its comprehensive Therapeutic Recreation (TR) programs. These services are specifically designed to provide individuals with various abilities and special needs the opportunity to participate fully in leisure activities.

The programs are tailored to help participants gain new experiences, build social skills, and improve their overall quality of life through adapted sports and activities. Offerings include specialized programs like therapeutic soccer and the Therapeutic Recreation Summer Adventure Camp, ensuring that all members of the Cheshire community have access to meaningful recreational outlets. The department also coordinates with the Connecticut Community Foundation to further develop these essential TR Camp programs.

The Farmington Canal Heritage Trail Connection

The Cheshire Parks and Recreation Department plays a crucial role in maintaining and promoting the local section of the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail (also known as the Farmington Canal Linear Trail). This multi-use trail, which runs approximately eight miles through Cheshire, is a major regional asset for passive recreation.

The trail, which follows the path of the historic Farmington Canal, is perfect for biking, walking, jogging, and appreciating local nature and history. The trail runs past key points like the Lock 12 area, offering a safe and scenic route that connects Cheshire with neighboring towns like Hamden and Southington, greatly enhancing the town's recreational footprint.

Whether you are looking to secure a pavilion rental at the award-winning Bartlem Park, enroll a child in the Mixville Adventure Camp, or simply enjoy a quiet stroll along the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail, the Cheshire Parks and Recreation Department remains your primary resource for all things recreational in town. Be sure to check the official Cheshire Activities portal for the latest program brochures and registration deadlines, especially with the 2025 updates now in effect.

5 Must-Know Updates for Cheshire Parks and Recreation CT in 2025: Bartlem Park’s Major Award, New Fees, and Summer Camp Secrets
cheshire parks and rec ct
cheshire parks and rec ct

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