Cranston to upgrade 33 playground facilities with $600K in ARPA funds, per Mayor Hopkins

Cranston Mayor Kenneth J. Hopkins has announced an ordinance to commit $600,000 in ARPA funds to upgrade playground facilities across the city.

“With this initiative we will make sure Cranston children and families have clean and safe playgrounds to enjoy the outdoors,” Mayor Hopkins said. 

The funding will be allocated equally among the six city wards. Funds may be used to replace aging equipment and make other necessary upgrades to bring playgrounds up to code. Cranston boasts thirty-three recreational playgrounds across the city with equipment for toddlers and elementary school-aged children. 

“Our playgrounds are a safe place for children to socialize, build self-confidence, and to develop their imaginative, motor, and emotional skills,” Mayor Hopkins said.

The ordinance, introduced Monday night, will be referred to the October 2 Finance Committee meeting. It has yet to be determined which playgrounds will benefit. Playground upgrades may consist of small projects, such as repairs to existing facilities, purchase of new equipment, the addition of lighting and tables and grills, improvements to basketball courts, etc.

“Some of our playgrounds have been aged over many years beyond my tenure in office and merit attention,” Hopkins said. “These funds will allow us to update our facilities and equipment to be accessible and up to date with the latest safety standards and play trends.”

The mayor said maintaining and improving green spaces, playgrounds, sports fields, the new Itri Park in Knightsville and other recreational assets is essential to anchor city neighborhoods and contribute to each ward’s individual sense of identity.

“Our parks are enjoyed by residents and visitors, and youths and seniors alike,” Hopkins said. “Getting outdoors and participating in recreation is essential for the mental well-being and quality of life for all. I am looking forward to the city council’s support and working with the council members as we identify appropriate projects.”

As one example of work that will be done, the mayor said he is working with Ward 1 Councilwoman Lammis Vargas to address immediate needs at Edgewood Highland School Playground, which is currently closed, by removing rubber padding and replacing it with wood chips as a temporary measure until further plans and funding are determined based on a final assessment.