LAKEWOOD – Families visiting Ocean County Park can now enjoy an all-new “Slide City” playground, a $1.59 million upgrade that doubles the fun with more slides, a dual zipline, and outdoor fitness stations.
Ocean County Commissioners joined local officials for a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the park’s 659 Ocean Avenue entrance to celebrate the grand reopening.
“Ocean County Park is one of our most loved and historic parks, and a place that families have been coming to for generations,” said Ocean County Commissioner Robert S. Arace, who chairs the Department of Parks and Recreation. “The enhancements we’re celebrating today build on that legacy, ensuring that this park continues to meet the needs of the families who use it every day.”
The new design by Kompan Inc., installed by Buzz Burger Construction, includes ADA-accessible paths, rubber safety surfacing, and inclusive play areas for children of all abilities. The dual zipline spans nearly 100 feet, while the fitness zone encourages adults and teens to stay active alongside younger visitors.
Funding for the project came through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), part of a federal effort to strengthen communities and public spaces following the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This is part of our ongoing commitment to enhancing, expanding, and modernizing our parks,” Arace said. “Our Parks Department has done an outstanding job putting these opportunities to good use for the benefit of our residents.”
The project is one of several recent park improvements throughout Ocean County, including new playgrounds in Jackson, Little Egg Harbor, Point Pleasant, Tuckerton, Lakewood, Berkeley Township, and Lacey Township. Upgrades are also underway at Cattus Island County Park in Toms River, and a new playground is planned for the future Matthews McKinley Park in Lakewood.
“The staff in the Ocean County Parks and Recreation Department does a tremendous job maintaining the 4,000-acre park system operated by the County,” Arace added. “We’re proud to continue investing in spaces that bring our community together.”
