Warren School broke ground last week on a new playground project at Brooks Field. The groundbreaking was attended by school principal Sam Krotinger and newly appointed project manager Rachel Grigorian, who served on the playground committee before being hired to oversee the project which is funded with some of Warren’s American Rescue Plan Act funds.
"This new playground represents a significant enhancement to our community's recreational infrastructure," Krotinger said. "It's designed as an ageless gathering space that will serve residents and visitors of all generations."
The playground adds to Brooks Field's other recreational amenities, which include tennis and pickleball courts, a skate park, a dog park, and access to walking trails.
"We're creating an inclusive space where everyone belongs," said Grigorian, who has already coordinated equipment purchasing. "This playground will be a place where families connect, neighbors meet, and our community grows stronger together."
Select board chair Devin Klein Corrigan emphasized the project's alignment with town values which include "Creating safe access to play in the outdoors and improving inclusivity in a space often inaccessible to an important segment of our community benefits the entire Valley."
The playground design incorporates accessibility features and modern equipment, appealing to users of all ages and abilities. Construction will continue through the summer, with additional phases planned through 2028.
While phase one is funded through ARPA, the playground committee is seeking community support and grant funding for future phases.
Construction for phase one is already underway and the committee is finalizing a communication plan to keep residents informed and engaged. By the end of the school year, details will be announced on how community members can receive project updates, contribute ideas, and participate in future planning sessions for this transformational community space.
