All-Inclusive Playground At Eno's Pond In Lacey Holds Ribbon Cutting

LACEY, NJ — Whether in a wheelchair or not, kids of all abilities can have fun and play with their friends at the new playground at Eno's Pond County Park in Forked River.

County and township officials were on hand Thursday for a ribbon cutting ceremony, unveiling the latest playground to be updated to be all-inclusive.

Ocean County Commissioner Robert S. Arace, Chairman of the Ocean County Department of Parks and Recreation was joined with Ocean County Commissioner Jennifer Bacchione, Lacey Township Mayor Peter Curatolo, Lacey Township Committeewoman Peggy Sue Juliano, Ocean County Administrator Michael J. Fiure, and Mary Jane Bavais, Director of the Ocean County Department of Parks and Recreation for the June 26 ceremony.

“The playground we are unveiling today is part of a growing initiative across our park system to build all-inclusive play spaces,” said Arace. “It is thoughtfully designed for children of all abilities to learn, play and grow together.”

Ocean County secured grant money from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s Jakes Law Grant to fund the construction and installation of the fully inclusive playground. Jake’s Law, which passed in 2018, encourages counties to build inclusive playgrounds that exceed the standards outlined in the Americans with Disabilities Act and result in accommodating people with disabilities to the greatest degree possible.

With its pour in play rubber surface, along with a sensory area, swings that can accommodate a child and parent, a slide and other recreational equipment, the upgrades allow children who rely on wheelchairs, need help with mobility or have other disabilities that may hinder them from participating on standard playground equipment the opportunity to enjoy the park with everyone else.

“This new all-inclusive playground is a commitment to creating welcoming and supportive environments for every family,” said Arace. “We are proud to feature it here at Eno’s Pond County Park, and we hope it will become a destination playground for generations to come.”