How to make a playground: apply for state funds

SUSSEX — Sussex Borough has taken further steps to develop additional recreational outlets for local youth. After safety violations forced the Sussex-Wantage Regional School District to close down a playground at the Sussex Middle School in May, the Sussex Borough Council began looking for other types of activities for area children. Last week, Councilman Ed Meyer said he’s discovered state grants that can help municipalities pay for playgrounds. Meyer said he and Sussex Mayor Chris Parrott have discussed locations in the borough that would be suitable for a playground, including a soccer field near Newton Avenue that’s on borough property. If it could get a grant for the playground, the council would consider moving the soccer field to Brookside Park, because the playground would be more centrally located, said Meyer. Meyer said he’s working with the borough’s grant writer to apply for the state grant.