During the last park remodel, Bergenfield had installed swings for children with special needs but the popular splash pad (or “the sprinkler park,” as many lovingly refer to it) remained difficult to access for park goers who require a ramp. This past summer, when the borough created a cement walkway around the splash pad and replaced the blue floor in the splash pad itself, they added an ADA-certified accessible ramp as well. The Barrier Free Committee and Department of Public Works worked together with the borough to make this a reality. Many community members previously unable to use the splash pad with ease have already availed themselves of the playground’s easier access.

Moving forward, Bergenfield is looking to add an ADA accessible playground in the grass area west of the splash pad. The Barrier Free Committee is raising funds for this project, and the Bergenfield Council is applying for grants. Anyone looking to contribute toward the playground can send a donation to the Borough of Bergenfield, with “Barrier Free Play for All” in the memo.