Mayor Domenic J. Sarno, Angie Florian’s family, the Springfield Park Commission, and Patrick Sullivan, Executive Director of Parks, Buildings and Recreation Management unveiled a new park sign to formally proclaim Angelina “Angie” Florian Park. The former Morris Street Park hosts a children’s playground and green open space in the center of the city’s South End neighborhood. Area residents and the business community donated funds towards the new sign. Donors include Carmella Danielle, Barbara Garvey, Balise Automotive Group, Palazzo Cafe, the Garvey Group, and A.L. Cignoli.
Mayor Sarno and the South End Community Council petitioned the Park Commission to name the park in honor of Angie Florian after her passing on May 27, 2019. The Commission voted in July 2019 to name the park in honor of Angie. Angie’s commitment to the South End and the City of Springfield was unwavering and she was dedicated to improve the quality of life for everyone she met.
Mayor Sarno stated, “I am thrilled our city is honoring the legacy of Angie Florian with this park. Angie grew up in the South End, raised her family here, and was a voice for the South End and its residents. Angie’s Legacy to the city includes past and current improvements in the South End. This park will serve as a reminder to everyone who visits or passes by of the importance of commitment to one’s community and working together in the best interests of all city residents. Angie had the ability to work effectively with people and had a tireless allegiance to the South End.”
Park Commission Chairman Brian Santaniello said, “The Park Commission would like to thank the South End Council for playing a vital role in the planning process for naming this park. Today, we are honoring the legacy of a dedicated city resident and this park will serve the South End community for many years with this beautiful playground and open space. Angie was an advocate for Parks and Open Space and it was her vision to beautify this corner and provide useable green space. She would be thrilled we have honored her with this new park.”
Executive Director Patrick Sullivan stated, “On behalf of the staff of the Park Department it has been an honor to work with the Mayor, the South End Council and the Florian family in the naming of this park. This park will serve to remind all of us of the importance of serving your city and staying true to your beliefs in what your community needs. Angie advocated for the many improvements taking place, especially the continuation of Marble Street and the relocation of the Marble Street Apartments. Thanks to Mayor Sarno, these concerns were met and construction is now underway. She was a strong advocate for her community and because of this steadfast devotion to the South End, great things are happening in this neighborhood. It is a great day when you can honor someone for their true commitment and love for their city.”
Leo Florian, son of the late Angie Florian and President of the South End Citizens Council, Inc. said, “The family would like to thank the Mayor and all those who supported this effort. We appreciate this honor and will see her name every time we drive through the neighborhood that she loved.”
