Rep. Dorinda Borer (D-115), Chairman of the State Bonding Committee, along with the entire West Haven state delegation, announced West Haven was awarded $430,000 for playgrounds throughout the city.
A grant of $430,000 was awarded to construct three new playgrounds at Seth G. Haley Elementary School, Edith E. Mackrille Elementary School, and Glade Street. Haley and Mackrille Schools will each receive $125,000, and Glade Street will receive $150,000.
“Safety, recreational open space and accessibility are all basic quality of life issues that should be a priority for all children,” said Rep. Borer. “Playing and socializing is a big part of their happiness, health and growth.”
As a former PTA president and Board of Education member, Rep. Borer said, “I know firsthand the struggles of families trying to raise funds for enrichment purposes. This gives a significant boost towards those efforts with a goal of also having the parents and children have fun participating in the design.”
“Regardless of their different learning abilities, children should be able to play on the playground,” said Kim Kenney, President of the PTA Council and the parent who originally reached out to Borer. “It’s such an important part of childhood development. It’s important that schools are highlighted as the hub of the community. You want to be proud to say your children are students in West Haven.”
Glade Street is also included because it is a Housing Authority Complex with many children who have not had a playground on site.
The current playgrounds cannot accommodate the needs of the number of students at each school. Furthermore, the current playgrounds are not accessible to all students of varying physical and cognitive abilities. Preliminary site designs have been drafted, however, the school communities will have final input into the developments.