3 Suffolk County Playgrounds To Undergo Improvements

SUFFOLK COUNTY, NY - Three playgrounds in Suffolk County will be upgraded as part of a statewide $2.6 million project, Gov. Andrew Cuomo has announced.

The project will build or improve a total of 12 playgrounds at 10 state parks across New York. By 2020, the goal is to modernize 100 playgrounds.

In Suffolk, at Robert Moses Field 5, the outdated playground will be replaced by an oceanside-themed playground with distinct play areas for children ages 2 to 5 and 5 to 12.

In addition two playgrounds at Heckscher State Park in East Islip will be be updated. At Field 6 a new meadow-themed equipment will be added to the existing playground and the existing gazebo will be replaced with a larger centrally located shade pavilion. At Field 1 the existing playground area will be updated with new swing sets, new safety surfacing, accessible walkways and seating areas

"In every corner of this great state, we are investing in our unparalleled outdoor resources to offer family-friendly activities for New Yorkers to enjoy," Cuomo said. "With this investment, we are ensuring our park system remains second to none and I encourage families from near and far to get out and explore all New York has to offer."

In addition to the playgrounds, the initiative will also involve site improvements, including shade trees or canopies, seating, water fountains and trail/walkway connections to the rest of the park.

Construction will take place in the coming months. The playgrounds are expected to be ready for use next summer.

"Playgrounds encourage families with children to engage in healthy, active and creative play, and nurture a love of parks and recreation," State Parks Commissioner Rose Harvey said. "I'm grateful to Governor Cuomo for investing in safe, attractive parks and drawing more young people to our great outdoors."

Photo: Facebook.com/Heckscher State Park