Playground Planned For Naugatuck To Honor Former Police Officer

NAUGATUCK, CT — A playground planned for Naugatuck will honor the memory of a beloved former police officer, State Rep. Seth Bronko (R-Naugatuck) announced Thursday.

According to a news release provided by Connecticut House Republicans, Bronko secured $300,000 in state funding to support the construction of a new inclusive and accessible playground that will be named "Chip's Place" in honor of Charles "Chip" Schofield III, a retired Naugatuck police detective, school resource officer and dedicated community leader who died in April 2024.

The new playground will bring to life a vision Schofield long championed of creating a place where children of all abilities can play, connect and grow together, according to the announcement.

"Chip was the kind of person who made a difference just by showing up, whether it was mentoring students, supporting families in need or volunteering his time for so many good causes," Bronko said in a news release. "He dreamed of a playground that would truly include everyone - kids with physical disabilities, sensory challenges or autism - and now, thanks to this funding, that dream is becoming a reality. I'm honored to help make this project happen in his memory, and I think we're all looking forward to the day we can officially break ground on this wonderful new playground."

While planning for the playground is still in early stages, it is expected to feature accessible play structures, a rubberized foundation for safety and sensory-friendly equipment designed for children with autism and other sensory needs, according to the announcement.

Initial plans also include fencing, picnic tables and shaded seating areas so families can comfortably gather and watch their children play.

The space will be designed to encourage interaction and inclusion, according to the announcement.

"Chip wanted to see something where all kids could play," Schofield's wife, Melissa, said in a news release. "Creating a place that welcomes children of every ability was something he cared deeply about. Knowing that this playground will bring joy to kids and families right here in the community he loved so much means the world to us. We're grateful to Rep. Bronko, Parks Department Superintendent Sandra Lucas-Ribeiro and everyone who donated time and money to help bring this vision to life in his memory."

A husband and father of three, Schofield served with the Naugatuck Police Department for 20 years, earning the respect of colleagues, students and residents alike through his roles as a detective, D.A.R.E. officer and advisor to the Police Explorers, according to the announcement.

After retiring in 2019, he continued to serve the community while working as a school security officer in Watertown.

With state funding secured, Naugatuck Park and Recreation can begin planning and designing Chip's Place, working with inclusive playground experts to ensure the final design meets the highest standards for accessibility, safety and fun, according to the announcement.