Supervisor Leenhouts highlights exciting recreation projects in the community

Penfield, New York – Penfield is already home to some incredible recreational opportunities, but exciting changes are on the way to make our community’s outdoor spaces even better. From historic preservation to trail enhancements, several projects are set to expand and improve the town’s recreational offerings. Here’s what you can expect in the coming months and years.

Alpheus Clark House: A Historic Transformation

One of the most highly anticipated projects is the rehabilitation of the Alpheus Clark House. Originally built in 1832 and officially recognized as a local landmark in 1986, the house has long been a piece of Penfield’s history. Now, it’s set to become a hub for community gatherings and events.

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The renovation plan includes preserving the original house while removing later additions that are no longer structurally viable. In their place, a brand-new 5,800-square-foot event space will be built. This modern facility will be available for community rentals, offering a fresh venue for celebrations, meetings, and more.

Additionally, the project will include the installation of new, publicly accessible restrooms for visitors to Shadow Pines. With work slated to begin this spring and completion expected in fall 2026, the revitalization of the Alpheus Clark House is a perfect blend of historic preservation and forward-thinking development.

Philbrick Park Footbridge: A Safer, More Accessible Connection

Philbrick Park, a favorite spot for many Penfield residents, is about to receive a significant upgrade. The current wooden walkways along Irondequoit Creek have aged and are in need of replacement. Instead of simply repairing them, the town is taking a proactive approach by constructing a modern, single-bridge structure that will enhance both safety and accessibility.

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This project requires a temporary closure of the trail connection between the Town of Penfield and the Town of Perinton, which may inconvenience some regular visitors. However, the long-term benefits—a safer and more reliable pathway—will make it worth the wait. If all goes according to plan, the new bridge should be ready by this fall, ensuring continued enjoyment of one of Penfield’s most scenic areas.

Multi-Use Trails at Shadow Pines: Planning for the Future

The south side of the Shadow Pines property, often referred to as the “back nine,” is also set to see new developments. The Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee has been actively discussing options for multi-use trails in this space.

To guide the planning process, the town has brought in Adam Reitz from Further Trail Services, an expert in trail design. His insights are helping shape the vision for the project, ensuring that whatever is built will best serve the needs of the entire community. While plans are still in the early stages, the enthusiasm surrounding this project is strong. You can view the presentation here. More details will be shared as progress continues.

Stay Informed and Get Involved

With so much happening in Penfield’s recreation spaces, staying informed is key. There are multiple ways to keep up with the latest developments:

• Visit the town’s website for official updates.
• Follow Penfield on social media platforms like Facebook, X, and LinkedIn.
• Subscribe to the town’s monthly e-newsletter for direct updates.
• Attend and watch meetings of local boards and committees.

These projects reflect Penfield’s commitment to providing high-quality recreational spaces for residents and visitors alike. Whether it’s through preserving history, improving safety, or expanding outdoor opportunities, the future of recreation in Penfield is looking brighter than ever.

For any questions or to share your thoughts, don’t hesitate to reach out. These projects are for the community, and your input is always valued.