The City of Lenoir Parks & Recreation Department purchased a new, 8-wheeled tractor that will help keep grass mowed and the greenway cleared around town.
Parks and Recreation Director Kenny Story said his department purchased the Ventrac 4500Z because it's versatile and able to perform many jobs.
The tractor currently has a 72-inch finish mower attachment. Staff are waiting for the broom attachment to arrive, and Story plans to purchase a trimmer than can cut banks and limbs. The broom will be used to sweep the greenway. Other attachments include plows, rakes, snow blowers, tillers, stump grinders, and more.
"We ordered the mower first, because we have a lot of grass to mow," Story said. "We got the broom to keep the greenway cleaner, especially after we have storms that leave debris and sand on the track."
The Parks & Recreation Department mows more than 80 acres of ball field turf, all of the open spaces at City parks, and several City-owned properties. With its eight wheels, wide stance, and all-wheel-drive traction, the Ventrac will make it much easier to mow steeper banks at City properties like J. E. Broyhill Park.
"This machine will definitely help staff keep everything maintained and looking good in the City," Story said.
Parks & Ground Superintendent Jeff Holland prepares to mow at Mulberry Recreation Center.
Parks & Ground Superintendent Jeff Holland mows grass at Mulberry Recreation Center.
The Ventrac 4500Z has eight wheels, which provides greater stability for mowing on inclines.