Warren, Pa.— At a recent ceremony in from the Warren County Chamber of Business and Industry Offices, the Warren County Commissioners passed off a check to the Rotary Club of Warren for $20,000 in support of the Sensory Playground Project to be constructed at Lacy Playground on the east side of the City of Warren.

Adam Meneo, one of the main drivers of the project expressed his gratitude saying, “On behalf of the Rotary Club of Warren and everyone involved in the Lacy Park Multi-Sensory All-Inclusive Playground Project, I would like to pass along our sincerest thanks to Commissioners Eggleston and Kafferlin, Warren County Development Association, and all of the businesses, churches, organizations and individuals who have contributed their time, money and support to help make this project a reality!”

The Director of the Chamber, Jim Decker, was also happy with the collaboration saying, “The WCDA is pleased to be partnering with the Rotary Club and City of Warren in the joint effort to make substantial improvements to Lacy Park.  The addition of the Sensory Playground to the park provides a much-needed outdoor recreational opportunity for individuals with accessibility needs.  The participation of Warren County in this initiative is greatly appreciated.”

The Rotary Club of Warren, in partnership with Warren County Development Association, has proposed the construction of a multi-sensory, handicap accessible playground for children with special needs, at Lacy Park on Warren’s east side.  This inclusive playground will include conventional equipment, as well as sensory-oriented, handicap accessible devices for children with disabilities, particularly those on the autism spectrum.  The project is tentatively scheduled for groundbreaking in Spring 2020, with completion by 2021. The goal of this project is to provide a safe, wholesome, inclusive and modern playground facility, to meet the needs of all children.  Multi-sensory playgrounds are built with specially designed apparatus, which help to create a relaxing and calming effect, activating various perception areas aimed at basal stimulation for those who suffer from neurological impairments.

Commissioner Jeff Eggleston, who has two sons with autism, was excited at the prospect of supporting the effort. “This playground will be used by many families from around the County. To me, this isn’t a City need, but a County need. Although this will definitely benefit special needs children, these systems stimulate the senses and are fun for all children. I can’t wait to see this completed.”

The Group had raised $448,000 of their $530,000 total through grants, donations, and municipal funding. The additional $20,000 will put the group close to being fully funded. The $20,000 were granted through the Commissioners Act 13 Greenways program.

Any questions for the Commissioners Office regarding this news story may be directed to Pam Matve, Chief Clerk, by phone at 814-728-3402 or by email at .

Included in the picture (left to right): Dr. William Clark of Bollinger Enterprises; Adam Meneo of the Rotary Club; Jim Decker, WCCBI Executive Director; Jeff Eggleston; Commissioner; Ben Kafferlin; Commissioner