AMHERST — Before spring turns to summer, a new playground featuring a variety of climbing, sliding and spinning structures will open at the northern end of downtown Amherst.
Being built for around $650,000, the development at Kendrick Park will include some elements dedicated to children 2 to 5 years old, others for 5- to 12-year-olds, and some that are fully accessible.
When finished by June 1, the playground will be on a rubberized surface, and there will also be metal benches and tables for adults to sit at nearby.
The development includes a naturalized play area covered in mulch and wood fibers and featuring granite blocks and stumps, a small natural amphitheater and earthen mounds.
This marks the first project at the 3.3-acre green space, given to the town several years ago after homes once located on the property were either moved or demolished.
A $400,000 Parkland Acquisitions and Renovations for Communities state grant supplemented with matching money from the town’s Community Preservation Act account is covering the costs.
— Scott Merzbach