Innovative Play Area Going In At Cross County Center

MOUNT VERNON, NY - From Cross County Shopping Center: Imaginative play is making its way to Cross County Shopping Center this fall with the opening of the NY Metro region’s first ever Luckey Climber.

The new climbing piece will stand approximately 16 feet tall and will occupy the same space as the former playground, near Old Navy.

Designed by Yale-educated architect, Spencer Luckey, the Climber is a safe, interactive, three-dimensional vertical maze that not only helps define public space but encourages physical activity and offers play experience that is important for intellectual development in children.

Constructed of bent plywood or rotational molded plastic, suspended by steel pipes and hand-woven cable netting, the Luckey Climber ensures there are no falls greater than 18 inches and there are no “cascades” that would allow children to go down multiple climbing panels. Platforms are also placed so that no one can stand up. No standing, no falling!

Since 1985, Luckey Climbers have been redefining public spaces and institutions across the world. Not only are they fun attractions for kids of all ages, they have positive effects on child development including problem-solving, spatial thinking, balance, social interaction and cooperation.

“We are thrilled to introduce this forwarding-thinking play structure to a new generation of climbers at Cross County Shopping Center,” said Jim Stifel, executive vice president of Brooks Shopping Centers LLC, the center’s owner. “The Climber encourages creative play and helps children interact with others, which is good news for parents and caregivers.”

“Cross County Shopping Center has been a fabric of the county for more than six decades,” said Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano. “This new activation will create even more opportunities for shoppers to experience all that Cross County has to offer.”

“Over the years Cross County has become known for more than shopping, we are an entertainment and dining destination and our shoppers will continue to experience the best programming and signature events possible,” said Craig Deitelzweig, executive vice president of Brooks Shopping Centers LLC. “Luckey Climbers are found around the world and we are thrilled to be home to the first in Yonkers and Westchester County.”

About Cross County Shopping Center

Cross County Shopping Center features more than 100 specialty stores and restaurants including Macy’s, Zara, H&M, Steve Madden, Starbucks, Shake Shack, Hyatt Place Hotel and more. Children’s play areas, free parking and seasonal events draw more than 10 million residents and guests to the outdoor center, year-round. Cross County Shopping Center is located at the junction of Interstate 87 and the Cross County Parkway in Yonkers, NY. For more details on stores, events, hours and other Center happenings, log on to www.crosscountycenter.com or call 914-968-9570.

Photo courtesy of Cross County Shopping Center