Children’s Park In Newark Gets $1M Summertime Facelift

NEWARK, NJ — Parks aren’t just “green spaces.” They’re also places for joy, creativity and connection – and that’s a big reason to cheer for the reopening of a popular play area in Newark’s West Ward, officials say.

On Friday, several local officials and community members gathered for a ceremony to mark the reopening of the Fairmount Heights Children’s Village Park, located at South 9th Street and 12th Avenue.

The $1 million renovation project includes new playground equipment, checker and chess tables, and a water sprinkler to keep children cool during summer months. Fundraising continues for a mural design and security cameras, officials said.

Originally known as KaBoom Park, the space had fallen into disrepair and was plagued by safety concerns. But thanks to the collaborative efforts of the city, LISC-NJ (formerly known as LISC Greater Newark), the Fairmount Heights Neighborhood Association, the Urban League of Essex County and several community leaders, the park is looking much better these days, officials said.

Funds for the latest round of improvements comes from the Mars Wrigley Foundation, Victoria Foundation, United Airlines and the New Jersey Devils.

“Identified as a hot spot for crime, within an area with a lack of green spaces, this project became an opportunity to enhance both public safety and quality of life,” LISC-NJ executive director Jorge Sam Cruz said.

That sentiment was echoed by Councilman Dupré Kelly, who represents the ward.

“As we reopen and rename this space, we are reminded of the vital role parks play in our communities,” Kelly said. “They are not just green spaces – they are places for joy, creativity and connection that nurture the dreams and laughter of our children.”

Mayor Ras Baraka said that “play” is key to childhood development, and a “revitalized” park will help ensure that kids in the neighborhood can partake in it.

“I’m grateful to every sponsor and to the Fairmount Heights community for seeing this project to completion,” Baraka said.

Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com. Learn more about advertising on Patch here. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.