The new poured-rubber ground surface work at the Blackwell Park and Grandpa Al Lewis playgrounds is complete – more than two weeks ahead of schedule – and the play areas are re-opened for fun, the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation said Wednesday.
“The new soft surfaces replaced the old broken concrete, cracked asphalt, wood chips and uneven grass and dirt,” said Shelton Haynes, RIOC’s chief operating officer.
“The new flooring is made from recycled materials and are durable, low-maintenance, ADA-compliant, shock absorbing; and the surface allows for the free flow of water, so the playground can be used immediately following heavy rain,” Haynes said.
Both playgrounds were closed on August 13 to allow construction crews to demolish and remove the old surface materials. Work was expected to take up to 10 weeks but was finished ahead of time, said RIOC Project Manager Janet Fasano who supervised the job.
“The parks are open, safe and ready for play action,” Fasano said. Both new playground surfaces are vibrant blue.
The installation of new playground equipment in expanded play areas is planned for Phase 2 of the project to start in the spring of 2019.
“RIOC is committed to maintaining its open spaces for children and families to be outside for play and recreation,” Haynes said. “The Island is a fantastic, safe and clean place for a kid to grow up. Our playground renovations reflect that.”
