Ocean County Leader

The Ocean County Board of Commissioners has approved a contract for the construction of an all-inclusive playground at Eno's Pond County Park in Lacey Township. The announcement was made by Ocean County Commissioner Virginia E. Haines, who chairs the Ocean County Department of Parks and Recreation. "I am happy to announce that today (Nov. 6) we awarded a contract for the new all-inclusive playground at Eno's Pond County Park, East Lacey Road, in Lacey Township," she stated. Construction is expected to begin shortly with completion anticipated in early 2025.

Kompan Inc. was awarded the contract, valued at $1,197,357. Part of the funding comes from a state grant known as the Jakes Law Grant, amounting to $771,750. "The new playground at Eno's Pond County Park is being funded, in part, by a state grant in the amount of $771,750 known as the Jakes Law Grant," Haines explained. This grant is provided by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Green Acres Program and supports the creation of fully inclusive playgrounds.

Haines highlighted the importance of this project: "The County appreciates being awarded this substantial grant for this project," adding that it marks the first step in a broader initiative to introduce all-inclusive playgrounds across various county parks.

Jakes Law was passed on August 23, 2018, and encourages New Jersey counties to build inclusive playgrounds exceeding Americans with Disabilities Act standards to better accommodate people with disabilities. An all-inclusive playground allows children and families of all abilities to engage together socially and physically.

Previous similar projects have been completed at Beaver Dam County Park in Point Pleasant and Freedom Fields in Little Egg Harbor Township using funds from the American Rescue Plan Act.

Once finished, Eno's Pond County Park will feature equipment suitable for children of varying ages and abilities along with shade sails and fencing. Barbara Jo Crea, Director of the Ocean County Board of Commissioners, expressed enthusiasm: "Once completed this new area will be a destination playground for all to enjoy." She emphasized their commitment to providing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors regardless of ability levels.

Additionally, Haines mentioned plans to complete upgrades at other county park playgrounds by summer 2025.