Hamilton anticipates the playgrounds will reopen by late spring
HAMILTON -- It's been five months since most of Hamilton's school playgrounds have been closed, but the kids are one step closer to getting their swings and slides back after contracts were approved Wednesday to begin repairs.
Last summer, the playgrounds at the district's 17 elementary schools were inspected. But after the first report on Klockner Elementary School came back detailing safety problems, a decision was made to close the remaining playgrounds of similar age and condition.
In 15 of the 17 schools, the inspector found hazardous conditions, including cracks, gaps, loose or protruding bolts, wear-and-tear from years of use and surfaces that weren't soft enough to cushion falls.
The new playgrounds that were installed in 2014 at University Heights and Wilson elementary schools have remained open.
On Wednesday, the school board awarded a bid to Marturano Recreation Company to replace equipment at Greenwood, Yardville and Yardville Heights schools at a cost of $28,090.62 each.
A second $374,361 contract was awarded to Whirl Corporation for excavation, curbing and surfacing at all of the schools.
The repairs are being funded through the district's maintenance reserve. An initial $250,000 was withdrawn in September and on Wednesday, the board approved withdrawing another $208,633 to cover the remaining costs.
Interim Superintendent Thomas Ficarra has said he anticipates the playgrounds will reopen by late spring.
Cristina Rojas may be reached at crojas@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @CristinaRojasTT. Find The Times of Trenton on Facebook.