EAST PROVIDENCE — A multi-faceted project to upgrade the Robert Rock/East Providence Senior Center grounds in nearing completion.

Begun in the spring, the improvements included the construction of a gazebo, a court for the burgeoning sport of “Pickleball,” a cement walking path around the sections of the Waterman Avenue property, a rain garden as well as lighting, benches and plantings “to buffer the vision and sounds of traffic on the roads surrounding the center,” especially along Pawtucket Avenue side of the location.

According to literature produced by the Senior Center staff and the administration of Mayor Bob DaSilva, the “overall goal is to create a more park-like setting for our residents to get outside and enjoy.”

DaSilva and the city’s Community Development Coordinator David Bachrach introduced the plan to the Senior Center Advisory Board during a meeting earlier this calendar year.

At that time the Pickleball court was highlighted for additional usages such as yoga and meditative therapy. The rain garden will help collect rainfall-runoff and be home for plants and pollinators. Bird feeders will also be positioned around the property.

For those unfamiliar, Pickleball is a racquet/paddle sport created some 50 years ago. It uses a sphere akin to a whiffle ball and is played over a smaller version of a tennis court. And while some of the rules and mannerisms are similar to tennis, they vary enough to make Pickleball unique unto itself.

The project also includes wheelchair ramps and a lighting system along with other safety elements. A bag and waste station is being added for those who walk their pets on the grounds.

In addition, the improvements include a sound system, which will, among other uses, enhance the annual Winterfest event put on by the Recreation Department by allowing holiday music to be played throughout the event. Winterfest features Christmas trees decorated in memory/honor of residents by their families. It also includes an appearance by Santa Claus and a community gathering as part of the formal opening night festivities.

A portion of federal Community Development Block Grant funding the city received earlier this year is being used to pay for the majority of the project. The administration with the approval of the City Council also set aside $30,000 for landscaping and lighting on the Senior Center grounds as part of the Fiscal Year 2021-2022 Capital expenditures budget.

The city received two bids in response to a Request for Proposal for the project, accepting the lower of the two ($353,011) submitted by Johnson Landscaping Inc. of Pawtucket. The bid of Yard Works Inc. of Warwick came in well above that of Johnson at $552,325.

DaSilva said last week the project is expected to be completed in time for the lead-up to Winterfest, which typically begins in early December. The mayor said he was being told by contractors mid-November was the actually the target date for the effort to be finished.