Hunterdon County Commissioner Director Lanza announces state grant for South County Park inclusive playground project
WEST AMWELL TOWNSHIP, NJ (Hunterdon County) – The Hunterdon County Commissioner Board recently approved a resolution authorizing the project agreement with Green Acres to move forward with the proposed plans for a completely inclusive playground, to be located at South County Park, Delago Section, in West Amwell Township.
This would be the second all-inclusive playground in Hunterdon County, designed to enhance the park’s facilities, ensuring children of all abilities have access to a safe and engaging play environment.
“We are grateful for these grant funds for the development of another all-inclusive playground here in Hunterdon County. The South County Park inclusive playground will provide children with diverse physical and developmental abilities, a space where they can play, learn, and grow together. This project highlights this Board’s commitment to creating inclusive and accessible recreation opportunities for all residents,” said Commissioner Director John Lanza.
Components of the inclusive playground will include a Trike Track, serenity spaces, ADA appropriate activity structures, pavilions, a barrier-free parking lot and sidewalks, restroom facilities with screening, living walls and berms featuring native plants to control volume and aesthetics of the park, and fenced-in enclosure for safety.
The $1.5 million Inclusive Playground project was introduced to the county in 2023. The playground will be funded by grant monies through the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s Green Acres Program, in conjunction with Jake’s Law Program, in the amount of $1 million, along with a 75% match in outside grant donations.
The first all-inclusive playground in Hunterdon County opened in June of 2023, at Deer Path Park, in Flemington, featuring accessible and inclusive equipment for people of all abilities to enjoy the outdoors.
Commissioner Lanza emphasized the importance of inclusivity in public spaces, “Creating inclusive play areas is not only in compliance with laws and regulations; it’s about fostering a sense of community and belonging for all children. We are excited to see this project come to life and the positive impact it will have on our families.”
