Village Awarded State Funding for Riverview Park Playground

The Village of Endicott has been awarded $409,200 in state funding to replace and expand the playground at Riverview Park, creating a modern, accessible and inclusive space for children and families.

The funding comes through New York State’s Places for Learning, Activity, and Youth Socialization (NY PLAYS) program. Endicott is one of 89 projects across New York State receiving funding to build, expand, or renovate public playgrounds.

The Riverview Park project is expected to cost approximately $511,670, with the Village providing a local match of $102,470.

“This is an exciting investment in our community and, most importantly, in our children and families,” said Endicott Mayor Nick Burlingame. “This funding will allow us to transform Riverview Park into a place where children of all abilities can play together, build friendships and make lasting memories. It is an investment that will benefit Endicott families for generations to come.”

A More Accessible and Inclusive Playground

The existing Riverview Park playground was constructed around 2012. While it has served the community for more than a decade, its wood mulch surface and current design present accessibility challenges for children and caregivers with mobility impairments.

The project will completely replace the existing playground with a new inclusive play area designed to serve children with a range of physical, cognitive and developmental abilities.

Planned features include:

• Poured-in-place rubber safety surfacing
• Accessible pathways, ramps and stairs
• Elevated play structures
• Slides and climbing components
• Balance and sensory play features
• Inclusive motion play equipment
• Creative play opportunities
• Permanent seating
• A shade structure

The goal is to create a welcoming environment where children of different ages and abilities can play together while making the playground easier for parents, caregivers, and other visitors to navigate.

Endicott was one of several Southern Tier communities selected for NY PLAYS funding. Approximately $3.4 million was awarded to playground projects throughout the Southern Tier as part of the statewide initiative. NY PLAYS is part of New York State’s Unplug and Play initiative, which supports investments in recreational facilities and encourages children and families to spend more time outdoors, be physically active, and connect with their communities.