The event highlighted the city’s investment of $100 million in improving parks, playgrounds, and pools. The new playground at Pennington Park is part of a broader initiative to revitalize public spaces for both children and adults. The playground includes features that make it accessible to children on the spectrum and those with other developmental disabilities. Additionally, the park now boasts a Fitness Zone for adults, built in partnership with St. Joseph’s Hospital, to promote health and well-being.

The celebration included remarks from key figures in the community who have been advocating for inclusive play spaces. An advocate for children with autism expressed gratitude for the city’s efforts, emphasizing the developmental benefits of inclusive playgrounds. She noted that families no longer need to leave Paterson to find suitable play areas.

Mayor Sayegh announced plans to resurface River Street and an additional 25 streets this year, with 10 more slated for next spring. This effort aims to address both bureaucratic and legal challenges that have previously delayed such projects.

Council President Alex Mendez echoed the importance of these developments, emphasizing the shared vision between the city council and the administration to create state-of-the-art playgrounds and improve overall infrastructure. He mentioned the upcoming playground at Eastside Park, which is expected to be ready in a month.

The meeting also included programming notes about upcoming events, such as the Great Falls Festival and a rescheduled old-school hip-hop concert at Hinchliff Stadium. Additionally, the opening of a new Early Childhood Center at Hinchliff Stadium was celebrated, providing services for children from three months to 13 years old.