Press release
Pembroke, NY — Excitement is growing for the community build of the Primary School playground. Preparation has begun and construction is scheduled August 20-31, 2024 when something magical will happen as the community comes together to provide our children a safe place to play for years to come. Following the successful passing of Proposition 1 in the 2023 Capital Project vote, the community will come together once again to build a new, modern playground that will serve as a cornerstone for the school and the neighborhood. The updated playground will occupy the same large footprint and incorporate the local and farm theme with touches of Pembroke Dragon flare. Great care is being taken to restore and incorporate the original wooden mural that showcased local landmarks. It is a priority the playground reflects the unique character and pride of our community. This project was designed and will be led by Play By Design, a renowned playground design firm. For more information on Play By Design, visit their website at https://pbdplaygrounds.com.
History and Background
The current Primary School playground, designed in 1993 and installed in 1995 as a community build project led by Leathers Playgrounds and Associates, has been a beloved fixture for nearly three decades. Over the years, it has provided countless hours of enjoyment and physical activity for our students. However, given its age and the increasing maintenance challenges, it is time for a significant upgrade to ensure safety and inclusivity for all children.
What is a Community Build?
A community build involves local residents in the organization and creation of a community project. This interactive process not only results in a unique and high-quality playground, but also fosters a sense of pride and ownership among participants. The collective effort transforms the environment into a lasting symbol of community spirit.
Benefits of a Community Build Playground
⦁ Cost Savings: By leveraging volunteer labor and donated materials, the overall cost of the playground can be reduced, allowing more funds to be allocated to high-quality equipment and innovative play elements for the kids.
⦁ Community Pride: Bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds to work on a common goal enhances community bonds and fosters a sense of accomplishment.
⦁ Enhanced Design: Each playground is tailored to reflect the local community’s cultural, historical, and aesthetic values, resulting in a unique and meaningful space for children.
⦁ Safety and Inclusivity: The new playground will comply with ASTM International and Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards, as well as ADA accessibility guidelines, ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for all children.
Progress
Earlier in July, a small group of volunteers came together to carefully dismantle the current playground. Pieces including slides, towers, tables and a gazebo (among other items) will be auctioned off to the community in partnership with Bontrager’s Auction. Those interested in a nostalgic piece of Pembroke history are encouraged to bid on the items online or in person. Any profit generated from the auction will be directly reinvested into the playground project.
An open house will be held Monday, August 5th from 12 – 1 pm at 2486 Main Street, East Pembroke, NY 14056. The auction closes Tuesday, August 6, 2024 at 6:00 PM (soft close). Items can be picked up Thursday, August 8th, 12 – 3 pm and Friday, August 9th, 9 am – 2 pm in East Pembroke, NY.
For more information on the auction, visit the online auction site. Unique Playground Equipment Auction (constantcontact.com)
Call for Volunteers and Tools
We are calling on parents, families, and community members to join us in this monumental effort. The playground build is scheduled to take place from August 20-31, 2024. We need volunteers with various skills and a passion for community service to fill a variety of roles. At least 25 general laborers are needed, with some requiring power tool experience. Volunteers will help assemble the playground under the direction of experts from Play By Design. Morning and afternoon shifts will be scheduled from 7:30am to 5:00pm, with lunch served daily from 12:00-12:30pm.
Are you unavailable to help onsite? There are many ways to get involved. Please consider lending the district the tools needed to complete this project. The district guarantees to return your tools in the same condition, or to replace them if they are lost, damaged or broken. All tools will be dropped off at the Primary School during the week of August 12-16, 2024, between 6:00-8:00pm. All tools will be closely inventoried and subject to a meticulous sign-in/sign-out system to guarantee their safe return. Tools will be returned promptly at project completion. Dates and available pick-up times are forthcoming.
Please complete the following survey if you have time and/or tools to lend. Tools and Volunteers Needed (google.com)
Join us in building a playground that will provide joy and safety for our children and stand as a testament to the strength and unity of the Pembroke community.
Project Proposal Photos:
