By Michael Mroziak
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wbfo/local-wbfo-962727.mp3
Buffalo, NY – The City of Buffalo is spending $1.6 million to upgrade nearly three-dozen playgrounds citywide.
City officials outlined details and benefits of the parks upgrade Monday while appearing at the Woodlawn Park off East Ferry in Buffalo.
The existing playground equipment at 35 playgrounds throughout the city will be torn out, replaced by what officials say are safer pieces of equipment that will be easier and cheaper to maintain.
The upgrades include new equipment designed for smaller children, gear for older children, more stable swing sets, new benches and a wood fiber playing surface.
Andrew Rabb is the city's Deputy Parks Commissioner.
"We focused on equipment that was outdated, equipment we can no longer r get replacement parts for, equipment that was broken in some way," said Rabb.
It's an initiative that Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown announced in his State of the City address two months ago.
"The $1.6 million structural upgrades will make our playgrounds safer and more enjoyable for families," said Mayor Brown.
The mayor said there will be more announcements regarding parks improvements coming soon.
"This project represents the largest investment for playground equipment in 20 years," said Mayor Brown. The playground initiative now underway is expected to be completed by June.