City officials and project contributors celebrated the completion of the revitalized 6th and Amity Playground project Wednesday morning in Northwest Reading.
Mayor Eddie Morán unveiled the new park improvements during a brief dedication ceremony, “As your mayor, I couldn’t be more thrilled to share this moment with you all. This project has been nothing short of extraordinary, to say the least. It’s a testament to what we can achieved when we come together. When we roll up our sleeves and we work towards a common goal. That has been the attitude we have had the last two years with all our renovations” he said.
Improvements to the park include the city’s first adult exercise area, which includes a variety of low impact, heart healthy exercise equipment such as an elliptical, crunch machine, areas for stretching and space for plyometric exercises.
On the other side of the park, swings have been added to the existing playground equipment, along with an area of musical instruments. Last but not least, the basketball court has been replaced and a fence has been installed in the outfield of the baseball field.
“What makes this project truly special is that it’s not just about sprucing up. We’ve gone above and beyond to make this place that caters to every age group. We’ve introduced a groundbreaking adult workout facility where exercise stations designed to keep adult resident, free, vibrant and youthful” said Morán.
“Our commitment to improving the quality of life has no bounds. And let’s not forget about our little ones. The smile on the faces as they explore and you swing, climbers, spinners, and a musical instrument will definitely warm our hearts.”
Focusing on sustainability, a “rain garden” drainage area has been added, allowing water run off from the basketball court and playground to flow into the groundwater system.
“Today, as we gaze upon this beautiful park, let us take pride in knowing it will stand as a symbol of our community, strength and unity for generations to come. To everyone who play a part in this project, I extend my deepest gratitude. Let us cherish this park as a place of joy” said Morán.
“It is with true honor and privilege that we open up this park as beautifully as today for the community to enjoy.”
The park layout was designed by CEC Inc. with construction by Uhrig Construction Inc. and paving by R.S. Smith. The total project cost was $645,380, funded in part by a CDBG grant of $371,000, DCNR grant of $150,000 and the CIP funding of $53,000.
