New Fairfield Twp. playgrounds just the start of upgrades at park

Residents of Butler County’s Fairfield Township are praising the recent upgrades and expansions of two parks. Parents especially like the new playground equipment now standing on rubberized surfaces at Millikin Road and Shafer s Run Parks. (Photo by Michael D. Clark/Journal-News)

Residents of Butler County’s Fairfield Township are praising the recent upgrades and expansions of two parks. Parents especially like the new playground equipment now standing on rubberized surfaces at Millikin Road and Shafer s Run Parks. (Photo by Michael D. Clark/Journal-News)

An investment into new playground equipment is also an investment into a growing community, said Fairfield Twp. officials.

The Butler County community recently opened an expanded portion of playground at Millikin Road and Shafer’s Run Parks and though it’s early, area parents said they are almost as thrilled as their kids about the new, modern playground equipment.

“It’s really nice and I’m impressed,” said area resident and parent Jessica Lowry. “This is a great park. There are lots of tunnels and slides.”

Fellow resident Holly Krolicki especially appreciated the new, all-weather picnic tables – with shade and rain overhangs – close to the play area and convenient for parents to sit but still supervise their kids.

“And there are lot more activities for the kids in this new addition,” Krolicki said. “I really like the nice views for parents to keep an eye on their children.”

According to a statement from Fairfield Twp., officials the two parks will continue to see expansions and replacement of older playground equipment.

And the renovation won’t stop there.

“Phase one is almost complete with a play set for ages 5-12, new swings, and shaded picnic tables, all in bright colors. The (township trustee) board recently passed phase two of the remodel, approving complimentary equipment for ages 2-5 years,” they said.

“Progress on both parks will continue with the committee and board researching replacement of the Millikin Road playground equipment, adding tether ball near shelters, adding a splash pad, looking into pickle ball, and other exciting options.”

In 2017 the Board of Trustees formed a Parks Committee, which is made up of one board member, several employees, and four residents. The volunteer committee has worked closely with the board to recommend upgrades and improvements to the Millikin Road and Shafer’s Run Parks.

Julie Vonderhaar, administrator for the township, said the playground renovations and expansions are “very important.”

“We have phase two already ordered and it should be open by fall,” said Vonderhaar.

The feedback has been “positive,” she said.

“I’m getting texts, Facebook messages and voice messages and lots of social media messages,” she said.

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