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DCNR Joins Lower Paxton Township in Celebration of New Inclusive Playground in Dauphin County’s Largest Municipality

06/13/2024

​Lower Paxton Township, Pennsylvania -- Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn today joined Lower Paxton Township officials to celebrate a new inclusive, multi-part playground and picnic plaza at Brightbill Park in Dauphin County.

“The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ mission is to protect and preserve the Commonwealth’s natural resources for present and future generations, and this new inclusive playground and picnic plaza is a prime example of how we can be more mindful of opportunities for all in the future,” Dunn said. “The department thanks Lower Paxton for prioritizing outdoor recreation and inclusive experiences at this park and we look forward to seeing the impact of this investment going forward.”

Governor Josh Shapiro has supported increased investments in expanding outdoor recreation, creating more opportunities for Pennsylvanians to enjoy time with friends and family and for visitors to experience the best that the Commonwealth has to offer.

The $1 million inclusive, multi-part playground and picnic plaza at the 41-acre park was funded by a $520,000 DCNR grant.

The agency works to assist Pennsylvania’s more than 6,100 local parks across the Commonwealth with grants and planning expertise.

In addition to the new inclusive playground that features sections for children ages 2 to 5 and 5 to 12, the upgrades at Brightbill Park include:

  • A sound garden with a variety of outdoor musical instruments allows children to explore various sounds and tones, expanding their sensory play
  • Creation of a small outdoor plaza with new benches and picnic tables, including a wheelchair-accessible table
  • Replacing the existing outdoor grills with two new units on a cement pad for easier access
  • Creating a paved path from the parking lot to an existing path in the nearby wooded area

“Brightbill stands out as a treasure in our township, and this project is a crucial step in our ongoing efforts to upgrade all of our parks,” said Lower Paxton Township Supervisor Chairman Robin Lindsey. “We understand that our parks are important investments in our residents’ well-being, encouraging a healthier and happier community.”

Lower Paxton Township is the largest municipality in Dauphin County and the fifteenth​ largest in Pennsylvania, covering a 28-square-mile area.

The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources is committed to making outdoor places safe and welcoming to all.

The agency is developing principles named “Mosiac” centered around ensuring the departments lands are accessible to all; providing inclusive and equitable programs and services; and recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce.

Check out the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ Calendar of Events​ for events on public lands.

MEDIA CONTACT: Wesley Robinson, 717-877-6315

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