New Inclusive Playground Opens at Wawayanda State Park, Part of Statewide Upgrades to Enhance Accessibility

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection unveils a fully accessible playground, promoting inclusive recreation across the state.

MORRISTOWN, NJ – The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) celebrated the opening of a new inclusive playground at Wawayanda State Park in Sussex County today, marking a significant step in its commitment to providing equitable recreation opportunities. This event also highlighted the completion of a major 18-month initiative to upgrade playground equipment at 24 State Park Service playgrounds throughout New Jersey.

The newly opened playground at Wawayanda, along with similar projects completed at Atsion Recreation Area in Burlington County and Cheesequake State Park in Middlesex County, ensures that each region of the state park system now boasts an inclusive playground. These facilities are designed to accommodate children with physical, developmental, and intellectual disabilities.

“Today we celebrate inclusivity, recognizing that every child, regardless of ability, deserves safe equipment on which to play and opportunities for fun without limitation,” said Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette.

Features of the inclusive playgrounds include ground-level activities such as musical instruments for auditory and cognitive stimulation, hand cyclers for upper body development, adaptive swings, and slide transfer decks that facilitate easier access for those using mobility devices.

The recent upgrades across seven counties not only introduced elements of these inclusive designs to all modified playgrounds but also added new features like climbing walls, corkscrew slides, and updated swing sets. Each playground now includes at least one aspect of a fully inclusive playground, ensuring broader accessibility and enjoyment.

“The completion of these 24 playground replacements ensures we are providing safe and enjoyable spaces for families that come to New Jersey’s state parks to spend a day picnicking, for a hike, or a long weekend in a cabin or at a campground, while we also make progress in reducing the State Park Service’s capital backlog,” said John Cecil, Assistant Commissioner for State Parks, Forests & Historic Sites. “The inclusive playgrounds provide an outdoor play space suitable for every child, helping with physical movement and mental stimulation.”

Funding for these extensive renovations and new constructions was sourced from Corporate Business Tax revenues through the Preserve New Jersey Act, supplemented by a 50 percent match from the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund recreation grant.

This initiative aligns with Governor Phil Murphy’s announcement last year of nearly $100 million in investment through the DEP’s Green Acres Program, which aims to develop or enhance park facilities and preserve open space, including the construction of inclusive playgrounds in accordance with Jake’s Law.

“The Enhanced Playground Initiative not only modernized our playgrounds but also reinforced the State Park Service’s commitment to accessibility,” said Rebecca Fitzgerald, Administrator of the State Park Service. “By incorporating adaptive swings, sensory play elements, accessible equipment and shade features, we’re fostering an inclusive space where children of varying abilities can play side by side, promoting inclusivity from a young age.”

These developments are part of the DEP’s Outside, Together! initiative, which seeks to elevate outdoor recreation, expand access to quality open spaces, and promote equity and environmental justice through enhanced outdoor recreational opportunities.