Arlington Park Neighborhood Association

Have you noticed the increasing number of strollers and young children in our neighborhood? Arlington Park is home to a growing number of little people, as well as parents and grandparents who care for them.

Our neighborhood has a unique opportunity to make an impact on the lives of these youngsters, by creating a top-quality playground. A playground committee of neighborhood residents has spent most of this year developing a plan to improve the playground.

The current playground, at 2650 Waldemere St., has served the neighborhood well. But at more than a decade old, it is worn, rusted and outdated.

Play is crucial for children's healthy development, physically, socially and emotionally. But playgrounds are not only for kids. Parents, grandparents, teachers and adults benefit from quality time with children and also the opportunity to relax outdoors, and chat with friends and neighbors. A well-maintained play area is a sign of a safe community. It also tends to increase property values and attract young families.

Plans for the new playground include replacing old structures with state-of-the-art new equipment, including swings for children with disabilities. A new vinyl-coated, chain link fence will completely enclose the playground, enhancing appearance and security. More shade and better lighting are also planned.

These improvements will be expensive, though. The neighborhood association is partnering with a nonprofit group, Friends of Sarasota County Parks, to obtain grants and financial support from businesses and individuals. We will also seek assistance from the City Commission and area foundations.

But support from neighborhood residents will be key. How could you help? Your ideas and donations will directly benefit neighborhood children. Every donation, however small, demonstrates to potential benefactors that Arlington Park is a vibrant and involved neighborhood. Use the coupon shown here to send a donation, or share your ideas. You can also e-mail Lisa McQuaid, playground chairperson, at lmcquaid@verizon.net with suggestions or questions.

At a time when obesity rates are soaring among children and adolescents, and technological distractions are consuming more and more of kids’ unstructured time, safe and inviting play spaces are more important than ever. Let’s embrace this challenge to create such a place for our children.