Trenton officials celebrated the grand opening of a new $1 million playground at Cooper Field Sports Complex on June 3, transforming an overgrown lot into a vibrant play space for children and families.
The 16,000-square-foot playground features two play zones: one designed for toddlers aged 2 to 5 with a tropical theme, and another for children aged 5 to 12 that includes climbing nets up to four meters high.
The playground also offers barrier-free access, with sidewalks and entry points that exceed ADA standards.
Additional amenities include ground-level play and sensory equipment, picnic tables, a chess table, and new benches. Future upgrades will add grills and a splashpad.
Mayor Reed Gusciora was joined at the ribbon cutting by Senator Shirley K. Turner, Council members Jenna Figueroa Kettenburg, Crystal Feliciano and Jennifer Williams at the event, Also there were Interim Parks & Recreation Director Paul Harris and students from Parker Intermediate School.
“Cooper Park playground marks a proud moment for our city as we open the doors to what will be a space where everyone in our community can connect, grow, and enjoy,” Gusciora said.
“With a welcoming community pool, a modern mini pitch, and a play area, we’re not just investing in recreation — we’re investing in inclusion, health, and the future of our residents,” the mayor said.
The project was funded with $1,009,782.90 secured through American Rescue Plan Act funds, thanks to the efforts of Senator Turner.
“This playground is truly magnificent,” Turner said. “It gives me great joy to help bring a space like this to the South Ward, right here in the great city of Trenton and the state of New Jersey. It is a marvelous place for our young people to play, learn, and grow.”
South Ward Councilwoman Jenna Figueroa Kettenburg reflected on the significance of the playground in her community.
“This isn’t just another park project—this is home,” she said. “This is a win for all of us—for the kids who deserve better, for the families who’ve stayed committed to this neighborhood, and for the next generation who now have a space made for them.”
Councilwoman Feliciano praised the collaborative effort, calling it “another job well done and a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved.”
Councilwoman Williams added, “This park is incredibly important to the City of Trenton. Children from both the North and South Wards now have direct access to a safe, beautiful space to play, swim, and grow.”
Interim Director Harris said, “We’re proud to unveil our biggest playground to date with this ribbon-cutting ceremony.” He added that the improvements reflect the city’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the quality of life for all residents.
As part of Trenton’s broader parks improvement plan, future upgrades are also planned at Rutherford Avenue Park, Eagle Tavern, and Wireworks.
