$60K In Toddler Playground Equipment Coming To Harry Dunham Park

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — After residents voiced their grievances over the new playground equipment installed at Harry Dunham Park in October, the Township Committee announced last week it will allocate $60,000 to fix it.

"I know that was something of concern to some residents about some equipment being installed at Harry Funham Park to appeal to toddlers in particular," said Mayor Andrew McNally at the April 25 meeting. "I just want to let everyone know that we heard that feedback from the public and will be looking to install some additional equipment for that purpose."

All of the equipment at the park off Liberty Corner Road was replaced except for the swings for a cost of around $180,000 in October 2022. Read More: $180K Playground Replacement At Dunham Park To Begin Monday

The new playground features separate units for ages 2 - 5 and ages 5-12, rock wall climbers, inclusive play pieces, and a 19-foot tall net climbing structure.

However, some parents raised concerns that the new equipment was no longer suitable to younger kids.

"I've been going there for many, many years now. I've gone to all the area parks and I consider this to be one of the best. It was one of the best and unfortunately, now I think the town has taken something that was sort of the crown jewel of the township, and now it's closer to a death trap for little kids," said resident Kate LaRosa at the Oct. 11, 2022 township committee.

LaRosa, who has six children, said the park is "great for older kids but it is terrible for anyone under a teenager. I'm very disappointed."

The $60,000 is being earmarked from the township capital budget for Parks & Recreation, specifically for the new equipment at Harry Dunham Park, said Bernards Township Chief Financial Officer Sean McCarthy at the April 25 meeting.

The Committee unanimously approved the final budget at the same meeting.

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