Andover Awarded $199,435 Grant for Accessibility Improvements to Ballardvale Playground

December 5, 2024

Town Manager Andrew Flanagan has announced that the Town has been awarded a $199,435 grant from the Massachusetts Office on Disability through the FY25 Municipal ADA Improvement Grant Program. This grant will fund significant accessibility improvements to the Ballardvale Playground, enhancing its inclusivity and safety for all users. The grant will support the installation of two additional play elements and the replacement of the existing wood chip surface with a poured-in-place rubberized surface in the north section of the playground. Additional improvements will include resurfacing the basketball court and optimizing routes to amenities throughout the park to ensure better access and safety for all visitors.

These improvements are part of Andover's ongoing efforts to comply with the ADA Transition and Self-Evaluation Plan (ATSEP) and to ensure that public spaces are accessible to all residents. The Ballardvale Playground, situated at the intersection of Andover Street and Center Street, is a beloved community space that will greatly benefit from these enhancements.

The project has garnered public support, including a $25,000 donation from the Rare Road Foundation, a local organization dedicated to improving the lives of children with rare genetic conditions.

The planned improvements at Ballardvale Playground are designed to address several key accessibility issues identified in the ADA Transition and Self-Evaluation Plan. These include the lack of accessible routes to the baseball field, playground elements, and amenities such as benches and drinking fountains. The project will also address the need for an accessible features such as picnic tables, ensuring that all visitors can fully enjoy the park's facilities. By replacing the wood chip surface with rubberized surface, the playground will become more navigable for children with mobility aids, promoting equal participation.

The Town’s effort to secure this grant funding was led by Director of Equity & Engagement Jemma Lambert and Director of Facilities Janet Nicosia, who also serves Town’s ADA Coordinator.

“The Town of Andover is fully committed to enhancing the accessibility and safety of our public spaces,” said Janet Nicosia, Director of Facilities. “These improvements at Ballardvale Playground will ensure that all children can enjoy this wonderful community resource.” 

The Ballardvale Playground improvements are expected to have a significant positive impact on the community. The playground is one of Andover's most popular recreational facilities, with an estimated average of 800 individuals and families visiting each month. Enhancing the accessibility of this public space will ensure that it remains a welcoming and safe environment for all residents, particularly those with disabilities. The Town of Andover is committed to fostering an inclusive community where everyone can enjoy the benefits of outdoor recreation and physical activity.