Community-Driven Design to Enhance Recreation and Inclusion Efforts; Playground Set to Open in 2025.
Perinton Town Supervisor Ciaran Hanna and Recreation & Parks Commissioner Jeff Nutting today announced exciting plans for a brand-new, music-themed playground at Center Park West, slated to open in 2025. This project marks the second phase of the Town’s comprehensive 5-Year Playground Revitalization Plan, aimed at modernizing and enhancing aging playground structures.
The new playground will replace the existing equipment installed in 2001, enhancing accessibility and inclusivity for children ages 2 to 12 and beyond. Its music theme will harmonize with the nearby Perinton Amphitheater, and the playground will be strategically relocated closer to the parking lot, restrooms, and picnic pavilion to improve access for all visitors.
“Community engagement is at the heart of our mission,” said Hanna. “The Town of Perinton is dedicated to providing exceptional recreational opportunities and maintaining our park spaces. Our 5-Year Playground Revitalization Plan reflects our commitment to ensuring that Perinton’s parks and playgrounds are accessible and enjoyable for everyone. We are thrilled to unveil a design for Center Park West that is crafted by the community, for the community.”
The journey to this new playground began with a community survey in Fall 2023, gathering insights from 180 respondents about their vision for the space. Feedback emphasized the need for inclusive play structures catering to children with varying abilities, with top requests including climbing structures, slides, and accessible surfacing. After a thorough review, the Town has partnered with Parkitects to bring these ideas to life.
The new Center Park West playground will feature play areas for children ages 2-12+, tiered surfaces with slide and climber access, musical instruments, imaginative play, and engaging elements, including:
- We-Go-Round: An inclusive spinning structure that promotes sensory, motor, cognitive, and social skills for children of all abilities.
- Rollerslide: An exclusive sensory experience enhancing balance, coordination, and social skills.
- Rain Sound Wheel Panel: An interactive feature encouraging auditory and visual input while developing dexterity, cognitive skills, and imaginative play.
Additional structures will include ramps, benches, shade, slides, climbing features, spring pods, and other music-themed elements, creating a vibrant space where everyone can play alongside their peers of all abilities.
Recreation and Parks Commissioner Jeff Nutting said, “The Center Park West Playground project reflects our commitment to providing accessible and enjoyable outdoor spaces for people of all ages and abilities. This new design, infused with a music theme that resonates with the nearby amphitheater, will create a harmonious blend of play and community spirit.”
The Center Park West Playground project is included in the Town’s Capital Improvement Plan, with a current cost estimate of $620,000. The Town is also pursuing federal grant funding for the project, which could lead to enhancements and future phases.
Center Park West is a popular gathering place for residents, featuring soccer fields and proximity to the Perinton Community Center, Perinton Amphitheater, and the RS&E Trolley Trail. The park boasts nearly 49 acres of recreational space, offering a diverse range of activities for families.
