Sturges Park Playground Completed

Neighbors, donors, and town officials gathered recently at Reading’s Sturges Park for a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the park’s new playground. The event, held Friday October 18th, officially opened the state-of-the-art play space that includes a climbing structure, handicapped-accessible swings, play-safe fencing, and multi-age equipment. The park also includes Reading’s first tire swing, which has already proven to be a hit with children.  The playground installation was the first stage of the park’s full redesign.

“It is always best to allow the people that use the park help design the park.  In this case we had many interested neighbors help develop what we think is a pretty cool place for kids to play” said John Feudo, Recreation Director for the Town.

Local businesses and park supporters contributed more than $12,000 at various fund-raisers and special events this spring.

“We at Mandarin Reading are proud to be a part of this community and are happy supporters of worthy projects like the Sturges Park playground,” said Mr. Robert Lee of Mandarin Reading, the local restaurant that contributed more than $1500 towards the playground equipment.  Mandarin Reading is the lead sponsor of the park. 

All donors who gave more than $100 have been recognized on a plaque that was also installed at the park.  Additional photos from the event can be found on the Sturges Park facebook page.

Future improvements at the park include new tennis and basketball courts, better parking and upgraded lighting and amenities.  It won’t happen overnight, however, now that Sturges Park playground has a completed and the town has approved the master plan, items mentioned above need to be placed on the Town’s capital improvement plan for consideration for funding.