Inclusive Playground Installed At Chimney Rock Park In Bridgewater

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — What started as a suggestion from Bridgewater parents, including Jessica Beck, for an inclusive playground has turned into fruition at Chimney Rock Park.

On Monday, Ingredion partnered with Bridgewater Township to enhance and transform the Chimney Rock Playground to be more inclusive to all children — all within one day.

About 80 volunteers from Ingredion, which its worldwide headquarters is based in Bridgewater, came out to install the new equipment. Bridgewater Township DPW workers also helped to supply cement and mulch.

"Everything just fell into place and it's incredible," said Jennifer Loughran, who sits on the Bridgewater Township Parks Commission.

Ingredion became involved in the project after it found out that the Bridgewater community identified inclusive play as an important focus area for the new equipment. This also aligns with one of Ingredion’s core values "Everyone Belongs."

The inclusive playground equipment will provide the ability for all children to have fun while also focusing on building key skills in music, creativity, communication, and balance.

David Fame with Ingredion, served as Project Manager, and noted there were three main components added to the playground including an inchworm for balance, four flowers and a lily pad for music, and a purple 20-foot underground pipe for communication.

"The Bridgewater Park Advisory Committee is honored to have collaborated with Ingredion on this incredibly inspiring project, where everyone truly belonged, and so many people were involved," said Loughran.

Mayor Matthew Moench acknowledged and thanked Ingredion for being an important part of the Bridgewater community.

"To spend their time and money and manpower - it really is a benefit to our community for decades to come," said Moench.

"On our behalf, please acknowledge our appreciation for the Bridgewater Township Department of Public Works, Gabriel's Fountain owner Alex Alb, special needs advocate Jessica Beck, educator and nature expert Melissa Ferreo, LifeTime Athletic, the hundreds of people who donated to add an adaptive swing, and especially engineering expert Mr. Fame, the decision makers that saw the vision, and employees of Ingredion for their time and generosity," added Loughran.

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