$38K Mindowaskin Park Playground Fencing Contract Awarded By Westfield Council

WESTFIELD, NJ — Fencing will be installed at Mindowasking Park Playground to fully enclose the area after safety concerns were raised by parents and caregivers.

The Westfield Council unanimously voted during the Tuesday, May 23 meeting to award a contract for $38,420 to Challenger Fence Company of Patterson, which is an authorized vendor with the Union County Cooperative.

In 2018, the playground underwent a renovation addi in larger play equipment. However, this changed the sightlines in the playground making it more difficult for parents and caregivers to keep their eyes on children.

"Many have raised concerns about children potentially running into the street or wading into the stream," said Councilwoman Emily Root, who also chairs the Public Safety Committee.

The addition of the fence was initially recommended in the strategic parks plan. And then requested by many parents who use the playground regularly, said Root.

Installation of the fence was put on hold until after the Mindowaskin Stream Cleaning Project was completed as the equipment needed for that project required an unobstructed area.

Additionally, Root said neighbors in the area raised security concerns at night with teenagers at the park. Police Chief Christopher Battiloro also suggested a fence would help with security, said Root.

"A very tasteful fence was agreed upon which will fully enclose the playground with gated access and we are now able to move forward with the safety improvement for everyone's enjoyment of the playground," said Root.

The fence is anticipated to be installed this summer. Updates will be provided to the public as the timing is finalized.

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