Montgomery Township Opens $1.5M All-Access Playground for Residents of All Abilities

Montgomery Township officials cut the ribbon on an 11,500-square-foot all-access playground at the Municipal Center in Skillman on Oct. 24, 2025. The $1.5 million project offers space for residents from toddlers to seniors, including those with disabilities and mobility devices.

"We want all members of our community to be able to enjoy fresh air and fun activities together," Mayor Neena Singh said, according to Patch. "From toddlers to seniors, from parents to grandparents, from children with exceptional abilities to adults using mobility devices, everyone will be able to enjoy this beautiful space. It's not only the largest playground of its kind in Somerset County, but one of the most forward-thinking community spaces in the region."

The facility opened to the public after a ceremony that brought together state, county, and local officials, school representatives, and advocates, along with administrators and families from The Rock Brook School. 

Parks and Recreation Director John Groeger said the project addresses a need for spaces that serve everyone. "I feel this is so important because playground and park space should be for everyone," Groeger said. "The definition of an inclusive playground is a space that's designed to be welcoming and accessible to children and adults of all abilities, ages and genders. That is our aim for this new playground."

Two large play structures sit on-site. One serves ages 2 to 5, and another targets ages 5 to 12. Equipment includes freestanding play pieces with music instruments and a zero-entry orbit that accommodates wheelchairs.

A cushioned turf surface and ramps allow wheelchairs and mobility devices to move across the area. Swings come with bucket seats, traditional seats, and accessible options with high backs and harnesses.

Funding came from multiple sources. A $750,000 Jake's Law Grant from the New Jersey Green Acres Program provided the largest share. Somerset County Open Space contributed $350,000, while the state's local recreation improvement fund added $66,000. Citizens Bank donated $50,000, and the Parks and Recreation Department's Capital Improvement Fund supplied $300,000.

Ben Shaffer Recreation of Lake Hopatcong designed the project. The location sits to the right when entering the municipal center on Community Drive from Orchard Road, next to parking spaces that include handicapped spots.

The project aligns with goals from the state's Mayor's Wellness Campaign, a health initiative that gives tools for community leaders to help residents achieve healthier lifestyles. 

The site's placement near the county library, municipal building, Rock Brook School, and housing developments made it a smart choice for the facility.