Groundbreaking for Clute Park ADA Playground in Watkins Glen

WATKINS GLEN, N.Y. (WENY) -- On Tuesday, November 12th local officials from New York State gathered for a special milestone, the groundbreaking of a new playground designed for everybody in Watkins Glen. The new playground will cover 12,000 square feet. It will feature ramps, swings, and even a wheelchair-accessible carousel.

"There's gonna be an array of playground equipment for all ages and also accessible for children with disabilities that can access wheelchair or otherwise, and it's going to be all-inclusive for all ages of children," says Village of Watkins Glen Mayor Laurie DeNardo.

Officials say there will be soft, accessible surfaces throughout, so every kid can play safely and freely.

The project was part of the effort to improve Clute Park and is being supported by a $10 million grant from New York State's Downtown Revitalization Initiative.

"[This will offer both] adults and children with disabilities that could benefit from a beautiful park and opportunity, particularly some of our children that have mobility issues that need a place to play," says Garozzon Salvatore, CEO for the Arc of Chemung-Schuyler.

The park is expected to open early summer of 2025, but an exact date has not been ironed out. Once completed, the hope is that the playground will provide a safe place for children of all ability levels, including their families.