Hunterdon County recognized for excellence in playground design at NJRPA annual conference

HUNTERDON COUNTY, NJ – Hunterdon County Commissioner Zach Rich recently accepted an award on behalf of the Hunterdon County Division of Parks and Recreation at the New Jersey Recreation and Park Association’s (NJRPA) 50th Annual Conference Award Dinner, held in Atlantic City.

The award recognized the Deer Path Park All-Inclusive Playground, which was dedicated in June 2023.

Also in attendance at the event were Commissioners Jeff Kuhl and Susan Soloway, Director of Public Works, Dan Bush, and Division Head of Parks and Recreation, Ryan Preston, and Parks staff members Laura Tarlowski, Craig Evans, and Patrick Eckard.

The NJRPA ‘Award for Excellence in Playground Design’ recognized Hunterdon County’s Deer Path Park, a first of its kind 100,000 square-foot inclusive playground, designed to promote collaborative play – ensuring accessibility and enjoyment for all children.

Commissioner Zach Rich served as the Director of the Hunterdon County Commissioner Board in 2023, and shared these thoughts, “On behalf of my colleagues on the Hunterdon County Commissioner Board, and all the staff members who worked on this project, I would like to thank the NJRPA for this special recognition. Creating the county’s first barrier-free playground was an important priority to me. Hunterdon County is home to wonderful open space land and removing barriers to allow everyone to enjoy an outdoor experience is something that my colleagues and I feel strongly about.”

The inclusive playground at Deer Path Park was designed to be accessible and enjoyable for children of all abilities. Some of the key features include ADA Accessible Equipment surrounded by a sensory-rich environment, accessible pathways, inclusive play structures, and comfortable shaded areas with seating. The playground aims to foster a sense of belonging for all children, providing a safe and welcoming space for play and social interaction.

Honors for the evening included the introduction of winners of the Agency Showcase Awards, Facility Design Awards, and Excellence in Programming Awards. The event concluded with the presentation of the highest honors to individuals who have made a significant contribution to the field of parks and recreation.

“Hunterdon County is looking forward to moving ahead with the installation of a second barrier-free playground in the southern portion of the County, thanks in part, to a recent $1,000,000 grant from the State of New Jersey as part of Jake’s law. Thank you again for this recognition and my congratulations to all of those who are being honored here tonight,” Rich said.