Scoring Big with Inclusive Play

From seesaws and swings, to a climbing soccer ball and a rope tower slide, Ocean County hit the ball out of the park with upgrades to the playground located at Patriots County Park in Jackson Township.

With ceremonially scissors in hand, Ocean County Commissioner Robert S. Arace, Chairman of the Ocean County Department of Parks and Recreation, was joined with Ocean County Commissioner Jennifier Bacchione, Jackson Township officials, and Mary Jane Bavais, Director of the Ocean County Department of Parks and Recreation during a ribbon cutting ceremony on Aug. 18 for the new playground at Patriots County Park, 485 Bowman Road, Jackson.

“This beautiful new space has been designed with not only with kids in mind but also introduces a state-of-the-art workout area for families of all abilities,” said Arace. “With it’s unique sports theme, designed exclusively for Patriots County Park, this will be a place that everyone can participate in healthy, active fun.”

Ocean County secured funding for the playground through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), signed into law in March of 2021 to aid the nation’s recovery from the COVID-19 Pandemic. ARPA funds have been used across Ocean County to support economic growth and improve public spaces, making them more inclusive, more accessible and more enjoyable for everyone.

“We truly hope this new playground will be a space for all to enjoy for future generations to come,” Arace said.