Playground Renamed For Late Middletown Twp. Supervisor

MIDDLETOWN TOWNSHIP, PA — The late Middletown Township Supervisor Anna Payne will now always be remembered by everyone in the township.

Earlier this month, township officials gathered to officially rename Cobalt Ridge Playground as Supervisor Anna Payne Memorial Park.

The renaming is intended as a lasting tribute to Payne’s dedication, especially in the neighborhood where she grew up and near a park she helped champion.

"It was a beautiful reflection of the impact she had on so many," officials said. "The way the community came together is a powerful reflection of Anna’s lasting impact."

Payne, 37, lived with cystic fibrosis her entire life and battled stage four colon cancer for four years, according to the township.

The township said she was also an advocate for individuals with rare illnesses and worked to create a more inclusive community.

The playground — originally constructed in August 2022 — was the township’s first inclusive and accessible playground.

According to the township, the space was designed to ensure children of all abilities can play and interact together.

(Middletown Township)