EMERSON—The borough has applied to a Bergen County grant program to increase accessibility at Rosengart Park. The scope of work includes purchasing and installing accessible play systems, swings, slides, climbers, and sensory equipment to increase access for all young residents.
The borough has requested funding through the 2024 Bergen County Open Space Trust Fund Municipal Park Improvement Grant Program to cover some of the costs associated with the proposed project.
This county program provides grant funding to local governments to supplement their efforts to improve municipal open space, parks, and outdoor recreational facilities.
The total cost of the proposed project is $351,000; there is a required 50% cash match for this program. As such, the borough has requested half of the project costs in grant funding and will provide the remaining half in matching funds.
Rosengart Park, also known as Sunset Park, is at 151 Park Ave. As noted during the April 16 public hearing for this application, this is the largest and most often used park in town, with swing sets and playgrounds for ages 2–5 and 6–12.
Council members have expressed support for this application, noting the importance of increasing access at this park for children of all ages and abilities. They noted that accessible playgrounds build social skills, encourage meaningful play, and foster inclusion to meet the needs of children with a diverse range of abilities.