LAKEWOOD, N.J. – Children raced down bright blue slides and soared across the dual zipline as Ocean County officials unveiled the new “Slide City” playground at Ocean County Park.
With a ribbon cutting earlier this month, county commissioners and local leaders opened the reimagined playground, designed to offer recreation for visitors of all ages.
The project adds fresh energy to one of Ocean County’s most visited parks, blending classic play equipment with inclusive, modern features.
Commissioner Robert S. Arace called the new playground a tribute to generations of families who’ve made memories at the Lakewood park, saying the upgrades will ensure it continues to serve the community for years to come.
Key Points
- Ocean County Park in Lakewood opened its new “Slide City” playground featuring a dual zipline and outdoor gym.
- The $1.59 million project was funded through the American Rescue Plan Act.
- The playground was designed by Kompan Inc. and installed by Buzz Burger Construction.
Modern design and accessibility upgrades
The new Slide City playground doubles the number of slides and features a dual zipline stretching nearly 100 feet. The design includes rubber surfacing, ADA-accessible pathways, and ground-level play zones, ensuring the space is inclusive for children and adults of all abilities. A new outdoor fitness area encourages visitors to exercise alongside the play structures.
Funding for the project came from the American Rescue Plan Act, a federal initiative aimed at supporting communities’ recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Ocean County allocated the funds to improve public spaces, promote accessibility, and encourage family recreation.
Part of a countywide improvement effort
Officials emphasized that the Lakewood playground is part of a broader county initiative to modernize park facilities. Recent playground installations have been completed at parks in Jackson, Little Egg Harbor, Point Pleasant, Tuckerton, Lakewood, Berkeley Township, and Lacey Township.
Commissioner Arace praised the Parks and Recreation Department staff, led by Director Mary Jane Bavais, for their work maintaining the county’s 4,000-acre park system and overseeing these upgrades. Additional projects are underway at Cattus Island County Park in Toms River and a brand-new playground is planned for the recently acquired Matthews McKinley Park in Lakewood.
Arace said the continued investment in parks ensures Ocean County’s green spaces remain “vibrant and meaningful” for residents seeking outdoor recreation and family fun.