SPRINGFIELD — City officials celebrated the completion of a $3.1 million renovation project at Riverfront Park Wednesday, saying the public-private investment offers a fun, safe experience for residents and visitors after years of under-use.

"It just looks absolutely tremendous," Mayor Domenic J. Sarno said. "Money well spent. It's going to be very welcoming."

Sarno said the park has been underutilized for many years, calling it a "hidden jewel."

Improvements to the park included demolition and earthwork to regrade the park that abuts the Connecticut River, new electrical services and lighting, a natural grass lawn for events, a new playscape with resilient rubber surface, a new splash pad, benches and a large flag. A September 11 monument will be unveiled next week.

The renovations involved $1.7 million in city funds, $1 million from MGM Springfield and $400,000 in state funds. The general contractor was J.L. Construction of West Springfield.

Riverfront Park originally opened in 1977 to celebrate the United States Bicentennial. Over the years there have been upgrades to the park with the construction of the Connecticut River Bikeway Project.

Sarno and Patrick Sullivan, the city’s director of parks, buildings and recreation management, said the renovations enhance the park’s use for festivals and other events including the city’s Fourth of July celebration.

Acting Police Commissioner Cheryl Clapprood said there will be a strong police presence at the park, including officers on foot and on bicycles. There is also a camera system.

Kevin Kennedy, who is retiring soon as the city’s chief development officer, said the park renovations were a team effort, and is among many projects that enhance the city and show that Springfield “is very much on its feet.”

City Councilor Kateri Walsh said the renovated park “will bring so much joy” to residents and visitors to the city.

Sullivan said the city is in discussions with Amtrak regarding safety improvements to a railroad crossing at the park’s State Street entrance, and creation of a permanent new entryway. A parking area and restrooms are on one side of the tracks, while some of the park’s main attractions — including the playscape — are almost directly across the tracks.

The crossing currently has a sliding gate, and the city is encouraging patrons to access the park by an underpass north of the State Street entrance or by using a crossing near LA Fitness, south of the State Street entrance.