West Side kids get improved playground

A new playground opened Friday afternoon for West Side children as part of a parks improvement project. 

Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown joined community leaders, parents and children for a ribbon cutting ceremony for the completion of phase one of the Massachusetts Avenue Park Renovation Project. 

The city invested $119,000 in bond funds for the improvement project.

“Healthy parks and playgrounds make neighborhoods stronger,” said Mayor Brown. “This is an investment in our children that will also expand green space, and improve the quality of life for the residents that live around this formerly vacant lot.”

PUSH Buffalo worked with the city to rehab the park.  The new park now features a new entranceway, benches, greenery and a newly relocated playground.  

“This new park answers a need in our neighborhood,” said PUSH Buffalo Board Chair, Maxine Murphy.  “Our children needed a safe place to play and exercise. We worked closely with the city on a plan, and it’s great to see it become a reality.”

A broken handball court and basketball court were also demolished.

The relocation of the playground is significant. It was located in front of the neighboring Boys & Girls Club, and situated too close to the street.  It was relocated into the park proper, offering children a safe place to play.

Mayor Brown also announced the start of Phase Two Improvements.   This $350,000 improvement project will continue to build off of Phase One enhancements, and include a unique picnic shelter, park pathway, and a multipurpose athletic field. Construction is scheduled to begin in the fall.