The new playground at the Clarion County Park in Shippenville will be ready for children in the spring.
A group of people involved with the $448,095.83 project that had been delayed due to COVID visited the facility on Monday.
Mindy Frampton, the county’s chief clerk, said the playground was a joint effort among several county agencies.
“Our goal was to create a playground that encourages everyone to play, regardless of their ability,” Frampton said.
“This is a one-of-a-kind playground for Clarion County,” said Kristi Amato, the county’s director of planning and development. “The county worked with Mental Health and Development Disabilities and Children and Youth to determine what the equipment should be and what the colors should be so that it can be inclusive for not only Clarion County but for children in the surrounding counties,” Amato added.
Lifeway Services compliance director Lindsay Deibler initiated the project when she was employed by the county.
The popularity of pickleball wasn’t ignored as two courts were added in the park.
“This is a terrific addition to our county park,” said state Rep. Donna Oberlander. “I think this is cool and the kids are going to love it.”
Funding for the project came from several sources, including a $173,500 DCNR grant, $30,367 from a playground fundraiser, $166,383 from Mental Health and Development Disabilities, $56,280 from the Marcellus Shale fund and $21,563 in-kind labor by the county’s maintenance workers.
“This is an inclusive and safe place,” said state Sen. Scott Hutchinson. “This makes the park even better than it was.”
“This project was the result of the efforts of the employees of Clarion County,” said county commissioner Ed Heasley. “The commissioners were happy to support them.”