Under the direction of Commissioner John Montillo, the Lyndhurst Parks and Recreation Department is excited to announce a project to upgrade the playground equipment at Town Hall Park. The area that currently houses the splash pad is aging, and the need for repairs and updates to that equipment has continued to grow over the years. Rather than a complete overhaul of the grounds and aquatic system a decision was made to do a renovation that will better meet the needs of the community as a whole. Playgrounds provide an opportunity for social connectivity and healthy living, critical components for life development. For children with disabilities, who are often dealing with chronic health conditions, the chance to be outside is vital.

The former "splash pad" area will now be home to a brand-new play area that features new equipment designed to be an all-inclusive, all-ability play area. The value of providing an area in Town Hall Park where children with disabilities, and without disabilities are able to play and interact with each other is of great importance. An inclusive, accessible playground builds on this aspect, with specially designed playground equipment that can be used by children with different abilities at the same time.

The new area will include a rubber surface that is soft and cushioned. There will be no less than 10 pieces of equipment designed to be an all- inclusive play area. The equipment is being installed with a focus on social, motor, and cognitive skills. Sections of the new equipment are designed to be at heights that are easy to transfer to and from a wheelchair, as well as, equipment that a wheelchair can roll up to directly. Other features on the new equipment will engage the auditory, tactile, and visual sensory systems.

Demolition of the existing splash pad structure is scheduled to begin in July, and construction on the new area will begin shortly thereafter. The project completion date is expected to be October 2021.

View Official Announcement Here