Fully accessible playground replaces one damaged by Super Storm Sandy
Eatons Neck – Huntington Supervisor Frank P. Petrone joined residents from Eatons Neck August 12 in marking the opening of the new playground at Hobart Beach, replacing one that was damaged by Super Storm Sandy.
The $187,000 playground, funded through the Town’s Parks Improvement Fund, includes several features that were not part of the 20-year-old one it replaced, mostly to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. This playground is fully accessible and inclusive, meaning there are no impediments to entry or use by persons with physical disabilities and that it encourages children to engage with each other through varied types of available activities.
The new playground, which has a maritime motif, includes a handicapped walk around the playset and at-grade ramps to accommodate children who are covered under the ADA. The end of the slides has an engineered rubberized surface at grade in compliance with new regulations. And park benches were added for parents to have a sitting area. The cement walkway curves to create a more pleasing design than more conventional walks that are at 90- degree angles.
“This was a long time coming,” Supervisor Petrone told the residents – adults and children waiting patiently to use the new equipment. Speaking to the adults, he said, “Thank you for your support and cooperation in making this happen, and most important, for your patience. Talking to the children, he said, “May you use it well, may you enjoy it, and most important, may you be safe.”
Joining Supervisor Petrone at the opening were Town Maritime Services Director Edward Carr, Parks and Recreation Director Don McKay and AlexMcKay, vice chair of the Town’s Environmental Open Space and Parks Improvement Committee.