Site Work Begins on 'Sandy Ground Project' Playground

Site prep work for the playground to be built in memory of Sandy Hook victim Dylan Hockley has begun.  

The playground -- part of the "Sandy Ground Project: Where Angels Play" -- is being built at Long Lots Elementary School.    

"This playground, which will celebrate the life of Dylan Hockley, is the fourth of 26 playgrounds to be built in remembrance of the victims of the Newtown tragedy," Fire Chief Andrew Kingsbury said in a press release.    

Crews from A.J. Penna Construction and Kowalsky Brothers Construction are working together to get the site read for a June 7 build date, Kingsbury added. Gault Energy is providing the materials for the site work and cement for the playground construction.  

"The generosity of these Westport companies has played a key role in making the playground a reality," Kingsbury said.  

The project was initiated by the New Jersey State Firefighters' Mutual Benefit Association (NJFMBA). Its mission is twofold: honor the Newtown school shooting victims while sprucing up a coastline devastated by Superstorm Sandy.  

The  cost of the 26 playgrounds being built in Connecticut, New Jersey, and New York will exceed $3 million. Those interested in donating should visit the Sandy Ground Project website.