AMHERST, NY (WKBW) — New York State Assemblymember Karen McMahon delivered $500,000 in funding to help build a new playground at Kingsgate Park in Amherst, a week after a beloved playground was torn down due to safety concerns, sparking public outcry.
The town is promising this will be a community-driven project, inviting parents, grandparents, neighbors and kids to attend a meeting in October to help design the new playground.
"Your input will be invaluable. This is a great opportunity not just to replace or upgrade a playground, but to create something that reflects the needs and priorities of this neighborhood,” McMahon stated.
Creating a new playground is a town priority.
"We were sad too — we never want to be taking out community spaces for gathering and play, but what is of the most important to all of us is the safety,” Angela Marinucci, deputy Amherst Supervisor, said.
The design process will include a hands-on vision board activity for community members.
"Not only is the community going to have input into designing it, but the community is going to help build it,” Mary-Diana Pouli, executive director, Amherst Youth & Recreation Department, said.
The town believes the $500,000 should cover the full cost of the new playground.
WATCH: $500K in state funding to rebuild Kingsgate Park playground in Amherst
Crews are already conducting interim work to prepare the site for a new swing so children can still play at the park in the meantime.
Amherst resident Elizabeth Lesswing, who brings her two young granddaughters to the park twice a week, was upset when the former playground was removed but is now excited to have a voice in what comes next.
"I'm so happy about it. Yes, I'm starting to believe in the power of the people,” Lesswing said.
She said she hopes the new design stays accessible and engaging.
"Keep it simple, but fun. The rock climbing, they're putting in the swings now, which is great. Slides. Just simple yet engaging,” reflected Lesswing.
The town hopes to create a draft of the new playground possibly in November, put bids out by the end of the year and start construction by late spring of next year.
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