The energy in the Horizons on the Hudson cafeteria was electric. Tables usually reserved for lunch trays were covered in massive sheets of butcher paper, vibrant markers, and half-finished masterpieces.

Parents and community changers, Rebecca Harrison and Joshua Brown from Newburgh Plays had arrived with a mission: to gather playground design ideas from the true experts—the children themselves.

The City of Newburgh is applying for a massive $2.5 million state grant to build a destination-class, fully inclusive playground right next to the Aquatic Center at Delano-Hitch Park. The group aims to build the kind of park families usually drive for miles to find and they want it right in the City of Newburgh! To design the best possible plan, the group recruited our students to provide their input. Our students were not shy and shared their big and bold ideas!

First, students were given images of playground features and were asked to place a single sticker next to their favorite feature. Next, students were given blank pieces of paper or printed images of current spaces to design their dream park.

• A winding Pump Track for bikes and scooters
• High-flying zip lines and challenging rope courses
• Swings to soar on
• Challenge courses to explore and imagine

Ultimately, our students imagine spaces where they can play, imagine, and use their physical energy to learn and grow outside! "We especially loved hearing students identify such practical and meaningful needs for the playground: water fountains, restrooms, and plenty of shade so their grandparents can share special moments with them." Rebecca Harrison shared after hearing from our students.

The workshop at Horizons on the Hudson was just the beginning. Newburgh Plays is a completely community-led effort, and they need the entire city's backing to secure the grant and bring this world-class playground to life. Learn more and add your thoughts to the ongoing conversation by visiting: newburghplaygrounds.org/survey/delano-hitch.

PHOTOS | Hearing from the Experts | Our Students! 
[Designing the Future of Delano-Hitch Park]