Brackenridge playground slated for safety upgrade

The popular playground at Brackenridge Memorial Park will get a surface makeover to boost safety and cut maintenance costs.

In a recent round of state funding, the borough received word that it will get about $95,400 from the Greenway, Trails and Recreation Program.

“It will be used for safety improvements,” Borough Secretary Denise Tocco said.

She said the money will pay for a rubber mat to replace the surface that is comprised of chips. The chips deteriorate over time, she said.

The new mat will cover about 2,500 square feet at the park along First Avenue.

Work likely will be done early next year.

Council President Tim Connelly did not return calls seeking comment.

Engineer Gordon Taylor said previously that the new mat will help the borough’s budget over the long run because of continuous maintenance costs related to the wood chips.

The grant also will pay to remove seven of the large trees that surround the perimeter of the park.

State Sen. Lindsey Williams said the most recent round of grants will work to improve community amenities for residents and visitors.

“We can conserve the environment and improve our quality of life by investing in our shared parks and green spaces,” Williams said. “This funding goes directly into community assets that people care deeply about.”