Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced New York has committed $2.6 million to build or improve 12 playgrounds at 10 State Parks across New York – as part of a goal to modernize 100 State Park playgrounds as part of the NY Park 2020 initiative.
“In every corner of this great state, we are investing in our unparalleled outdoor resources to offer family-friendly activities for New Yorkers to enjoy,” Governor Cuomo said. “With this investment, we are ensuring our park system remains second to none and I encourage families from near and far to get out and explore all New York has to offer.”
Under the initiative, State Parks will replace outdated playgrounds at the parks with modern, code-compliant equipment, improve accessibility for people with disabilities, and create distinct areas for young and older age groups. Playground improvements will be coupled with site improvements, including shade trees or canopies, seating, water fountains and trail/walkway connections to the rest of the park.
“Playgrounds encourage families with children to engage in healthy, active and creative play, and nurture a love of parks and recreation,” said State Parks Commissioner Rose Harvey. “I’m grateful to Governor Cuomo for investing in safe, attractive parks and drawing more young people to our great outdoors.”
The State Parks include:
- Robert Moses Field 5 – replace outdated playground with an Oceanside-themed playground with distinct play areas for children ages 2 – 5 and 5 -12
- Heckscher Field 6 – expand an existing an existing playground with new meadow-themed equipment; an existing gazebo will be replaced with a larger centrally located shade pavilion
- Heckscher Field 1 – modernize an existing playground area with new swing sets, new safety surfacing, accessible walkways and seating areas
Construction will take place in the coming months. The playgrounds are expected to be ready for use next summer.
The playgrounds are funded by Governor Cuomo’s NY Parks 2020 state park revitalization plan, which includes a commitment to add or improve 100 playgrounds by 2020. The Governor’s NY Parks 2020 program is a multi-year commitment to leverage $900 million in private and public funding for State Parks from 2011 to 2020. The 2017-18 State Budget allocates $120 million toward this initiative.
The playgrounds also reflect Governor Cuomo’s Connect Kids to Parks program to draw more youth to the outdoors.
Source: NYS Office of Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation