The Village of Pinecrest has been tapped for a 2015 Playful City USA designation by KaBOOM! – one of only 241 communities in the country to get the award. It was the third year that Pinecrest received the designation since 2012.
In partnership with the Humana Foundation, KaBOOM! gives the award to municipalities and counties across the country for making their communities more playable.
Last year, the Village Council approved about $6 million in capital improvements for the Pinecrest Community Center and Coral Pine Park to increase programming and enhance family play areas.
The Village Council also approved a Safe Routes to School program to improve access to schools and play areas for children. “The Village of Pinecrest is proud of our strong community involvement and the dedication to provide excellent play opportunities for children of all ages,” said Loren Mathews, director of Parks and Recreation.
“We understand the importance of play for livability, health and vibrancy of our community by partnerships with Community Based Organizations, neighboring cities and creating safe routes to our schools and parks.”
“Playability is crucial to the success of our future communities and we are proud of the work these cities and leaders are doing to provide a better quality of life for all residents, and especially families,” said James Siegal president of KaBOOM!. “Play provides a competitive advantage for cities looking to attract and retain residents. With these esteemed leaders and our friends and partners across the country, we continue to prioritize play for all kids.”
To, see the list of the 241 communities named 2015 Playful City USA honorees or for more information, go online at www.playfulcityusa.org.
KaBOOM! is the national non-profit dedicated to giving all kids – particularly those growing up in poverty in America – the childhood they deserve filled with balanced and active play so they can thrive. Since 1996, KaBOOM! has collaborated with partners to build, open or improve 16,300 playgrounds, engaged more than one-million volunteers and served 8.1 million kids. KaBOOM! creates great places to play, inspires communities to promote and support play, and works to drive the national discussion about the importance of play in fostering healthy and productive lives.
For more information, go to kaboom.org.
