Summit Unveils Plans for New Community Center Playground in East Summit
Ahe new neighborhood playground designed for Summit’s youngest residents could be coming to the Community Center campus by late 2026 under a plan announced this week by the City of Summit.
The proposed playground would be built at Lower Long Field near the Tiny Forest at the Summit Community Center on Morris Avenue, according to the city’s Department of Community Programs (DCP). Officials said the play area is intended for children ages 2 to 5 and is being designed as a small-scale, walkable neighborhood playground rather than a regional destination.
City officials said the project would be funded entirely through donations, nonprofit partnerships, and grants.
The site was selected by the Community Programs and Parking Services Committee (CPPS) after what the city described as an evaluation process focused on finding a practical location for a neighborhood play space in East Summit. The plan also includes on-site parking intended to reduce traffic impacts on nearby Morris Court.
“This new neighborhood playground is an important investment in our community, and I am thrilled to see this project come to life,” said Elizabeth Fagan in a statement released by the city. “The playground that used to be located at Lower Long Field was removed over 20 years ago, so this area is long overdue for a public play space that children can use before, during, and after school hours.”
According to the city, conceptual playground plans are available through the Department of Community Programs website, and residents are invited to submit feedback on the design by email to dguidajr@cityofsummit.org.
“I want to thank our DCP Advisory Board and CPPS Committee for their extensive and thoughtful planning to make this project a reality,” said DCP Director Mark Ozoroski. “We are fortunate to have received funding through the Play & Park Structures Healthy Kids Initiative Grant and generous donors, including the LaSanders Fund.”
Ozoroski added that the city hopes the playground will expand opportunities for outdoor recreation and accessible play spaces for local families.
More information and playground plans are available through Summit Community Programs.
