(Massena) Families are enjoying the new playground equipment at Massena City Park.
The city of Massena was awarded a $24,999 grant from the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation’s National Paralysis Resource Center to improve accessibility at a community playground.
The grant is part of the foundation’s 2025 Direct Effect second-cycle Quality of Life Grants program, which awarded 56 grants totaling more than $1.14 million to organizations supporting individuals living with paralysis.
The City of Massena used the funding to install inclusive playground equipment designed to help children with disabilities and sensory sensitivities play alongside others. The grant also supports accessible surfacing to make the playground safer and more usable for people of all abilities.
City Officials say the funding will help create a more welcoming recreational space where children and families can connect and participate in community activities. City Councilman Doug Venteicher says the project’s total cost is around $250,000. He said on nice days the park is full of families and their children.
Venteicher says the city has been investing in the park over the years.
The city expressed appreciation to the Reeve Foundation for supporting its efforts to improve accessibility and provide inclusive play opportunities.
Installation of the playground equipment started at the end of August and was completed earlier this month.
A ribbon cutting ceremony will be held sometime this spring.
