County Executive Speaks on Broadneck Park Renovations

Persistence finally paid off—after fundraisers and spreading awareness across the county, Broadneck Park's playground secured funding in this year's budget for new equipment.

The Friends of Broadneck Park (FBP), , has sought to replace the existing playground with newer equipment. The goal is to make the equipment more accessible to children ages 2-12.

Thanks to , much of that work can be accomplished.

County Executive John R. Leopold said in a press release issued Monday he was glad the playground will get its requested funding.

"We are very grateful to our friends groups around the County who do so much to benefit our parks," Leopold said. "I am pleased that this work can go forward to make the park more accessible to disabled individuals. We are proud of our many improvements in this regard, including Freedom Field at Lake Waterford Park in North County."

In March 2012, a federal law was passed that requires new and renovated playgrounds to provide accessibility to children with disabilities.

Broadneck Park will have the first playground in the county to comply with the new Americans with Disabilities Act requirements, according to the release. 

Rick Anthony, director of county Department of Recreation and Parks, said he was impressed with the initiative taken by FBP in getting the park funded.

“Our department is delighted to be working with this group to reach the common goal of making improvements to the playground at Broadneck Park and providing a safe and healthy recreation area for the children," he said.

FBP is a community group working with . The group is scheduling several family-friendly events this summer, including a Touch-A-Truck fundraiser and food drive, and golf tournament at .  

One of the events the group hosted this year was 

For more information visit www.friendsofbroadneckpark.com.