2 New Playgrounds To Be Installed In Bridgewater Parks

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — Two Bridgewater parks will soon get a face-lift with the township council voting to spend roughly $120,000 to upgrade the playgrounds.

The Township Council unanimously voted to approve the two resolutions to award a contract to Ben Shaffer Recreation for Alfred Brown Park Playground equipment for $59,857.89 and Harry Ally Park Playground equipment for $60,303.86.

"I think this is an important investment in the community," said Councilman Michael Kirsh.

Both playgrounds at Alfred Brown Park, in the Bradley Gardens section of town, and Harry Allen Park, in the Finderne section of town, have not been upgraded in about 30 years.

"These parks are being used and its wear and tear," said Councilman Timothy Ring. "It's time to be replaced."

Bridgewater's Public Works and Sewer Utility Superintendent Dicky Shimp gave the council a presentation during the Nov. 10 meeting about the current park conditions and proposed improvements.

Shimp noted that both playgrounds had previously been installed in the early 1990s. Alfred Brown's playground was comprised of wood material which caused the posts to be compromised due to the soil rotting the wood.

"If we don’t replace it, it would have to be taken out of service sometime next year," said Shimp of the playground.

Harry Ally's playground, which is comprised of metal, was rusting through and repairs would cost around $25,000 for just three decking pieces.

Shimp compared the cost of the repairs with the age of the structure to the cost of an entirely brand new playground.

Council President Allen Kurdyla said the main reason for the council to pass both resolutions for the new playground equipment "is for the safety of our children."

He noted that while Harry Ally Park had metalwork and Alfred Brown Park had woodwork in the playgrounds both still needed to be replaced.

"While the materials are different the circumstance is the same that there is a liability for the safety of children," said Kurdyla.

The life expectancy of the new playground equipment is 20 years and is maintenance-free. It also comes with a 10-year warranty, said Shimp.

The new equipment is expected to be delivered in 12 weeks.

See both resolutions for the playground purchases below:

12g ALFRED BROWN PARK PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT by Alexis Tarrazi on Scribd

12h HARRY ALLY PARK PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT by Alexis Tarrazi on Scribd

Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.