Erie County Legislators Joe Lorigo, Chris Greene, Frank Todaro, and John Mills are proud to announce they have secured funds to install all ability inclusive playgrounds in each of Erie County’s heritage parks, in addition to investing in other park enhancements and road and bridge improvements throughout the County.

The inclusive playground project will include $425,000 in funding for each Emery, Chestnut Ridge, Como Lake, Akron Falls, and Ellicott Creek Parks to feature playground equipment accessible to children of all abilities. Legislators reached a deal with the Administration to fund the projects with cashas part of negotiations over the annual capital project bond resolution.  This agreement will fully fund the playgrounds in year one without adding any additional debt to the county’s finances.

Douglas DiGesare, CEO of ARC of Erie County said, “On behalf of the hundreds of families supported by The Arc Erie County New York and thousands of other children with differing abilities across Western New York, we commend Legislator Lorigo, Legislator Greene, Legislator Todaro, and Legislator Mills for ensuring that children of all abilities have safe and inclusive places to play in our public parks.”

Minority Leader Lorigo said, “This is a major step in making Erie County more inclusive for everyone. There is a need for playgrounds to accommodate children of all abilities. Kids shouldn’t be separated based on their level of ability, and parents shouldn’t have to travel far to access space for inclusive play. I’m proud we reached an agreement to make this happen and look forward to getting things underway as soon as possible.”

Legislator Greene said, “These playgrounds will be a welcome addition to our Erie County Parks system. By installing them in each of the heritage parks, it will ensure people in all parts of the county will have access. Playtime and socialization are important to childhood development, and no one should feel left out in our parks.”

Legislator Todaro said, “Having many spaces for kids of different abilities to safely play and socialize is extremely important. These playgrounds will benefit everyone. It is our goal to have them operational by next year and I look forward to completion.”

Legislator Mills said, “An inclusive playground was proposed for Chestnut Ridge Park in January 2020 but additional funds were needed. The money we have secured today will make the project a reality in Erie County’s largest park space, which is also in the legislative district I’m proud to represent. I look forward to seeing these playgrounds come together so children can learn and play together in a safe, beautiful space in our community.”

In addition to inclusive playgrounds, the Minority Caucus secured funding for $1.2 million in improvements for all Erie County Parks, including the completion of the Lancaster Bark Park in Como Lake Park. Legislators Lorigo, Greene, Todaro, and Mills also negotiated more than $3 million in funding for road and infrastructure improvements beyond what was proposed by the Administration.

“We believe these are investments that will have a long-term benefit to the taxpayers of Erie County,” Minority Leader Lorigo added. “By paying for a portion of these projects in cash, we aren’t increasing the County’s long-term borrowing which is also a win-win. The money we have secured will make sure more infrastructure needs are addressed and that parks in every corner of Erie County are properly invested in.”