Manhattan Parks and Recreation officials last week announced they won’t implement new membership fees to use the three local recreation centers until July 1 after previously setting the start date for Feb. 1.
Parks and rec director Aaron Stewart in a public discussion last week said the delay will allow time for families to prepare financially or apply for a scholarship.
Officials announced the new fees earlier this month, with the vast majority of online comments expressing frustration and disappointment that residents will have to pay to use facilities that previously were free. Stewart hosted two public discussions last week to explain the need for the fees and to hear feedback from community members.
