Teaneck Considers Engineering Contract For Inclusive Playground Upgrade

TEANECK, NJ — A major overhaul of the inclusive playground at Votee Park is moving forward, with Teaneck officials considering a maximum cost of $159,400 engineering contract for the project.

The Township Council is considering a resolution Tuesday that would award Fastech Consulting Engineers the contract for professional engineering services. The firm submitted its proposal Sept. 16, according to the township's council agenda.

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Plans call for demolishing the existing inclusive playground and building a new one with new play equipment and safety surfacing. Fastech's work would include preliminary and detailed design, construction plans, bid documents, construction management and inspections.

The preliminary design phase would also include a site assessment and topographic surveys, along with a review of input from the Parks, Playgrounds and Recreation Advisory Board. The design is expected to address identified needs and comply with Jake's Law requirements.

Jake's Law is a New Jersey law establishing standards for completely inclusive playgrounds designed to include children and adults with disabilities, including requirements for accessible surfacing, ramps and accessible play elements, according to the New Jersey Legislature.

Teaneck previously appropriated $2 million for upgrades and improvements to the Votee Park playground, including a $750,000 New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Green Acres grant.

Fastech's proposed engineering fee is capped at $159,400, including $63,480 for preliminary and detailed design and $95,920 for construction management.

The township previously said the Votee Park project is intended to expand accessibility and inclusivity for children of all abilities. Mayor Mark Schwartz called the grant funding a "major investment in Teaneck's parks and in the quality of life for our residents."

"We are especially excited about the improvements to Votee Park, which will provide a more inclusive and welcoming environment for children with disabilities," he added.

Residents can watch the meeting on the township's Facebook or YouTube, through public access television, or join through Zoom using passcode 545189.

Have a correction or news tip? Email dani.sepe@patch.com.