A $100,000 Gift Helped Replace This Town Playground

SOUTH WINDSOR, CT — A new playground at Rye Street Park is open, following a replacement project backed by a $100,000 contribution from the South Windsor Rotary Club.

Families gathered Monday, Oct. 19, for the grand opening, according to South Windsor Parks & Recreation’s announcement.

The project replaces aging equipment with a play area that town officials designed to offer more features and better accessibility.

Replacing Worn Equipment

An April 6 capital projects presentation described substantial wear on the existing playground. The proposed replacement included an expanded structure for children ages 5–12, new play features and a poured-in-place surface intended to improve accessibility and safety.

The presentation identified a $100,000 Rotary contribution and a $125,000 town funding request. March 4 Park and Recreation Commission minutes put the planned replacement cost at $225,000.

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Rotary’s Role

Parks & Recreation singled out the Rotary Club in its announcement, thanking members for their donations and continued support.

“Your ongoing commitment to our community helps make projects like this possible, creating opportunities for children and families to play, connect, and make lasting memories,” the department wrote.

The department also thanked the Town Council for supporting recreational spaces and Ben Shaffer Recreation for collaborating on the playground installation.

“We loved celebrating this exciting addition to our community with you and seeing families come together to enjoy this new space,” the department wrote.

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