More Play for the ‘Panthers’: $50,000 From Ritchie Will Improve Belleville Henderson Playground

Funding Will Improve Safety and Encourage Kids to be More Active 

State Senator Patty Ritchie has announced she has secured $50,000 to help the Belleville Henderson Central School District repair and update its playground. 

“A child’s education is more than just what they learn in the classroom—it also includes the experiences they have interacting with their peers and developing their creative side through play,” said Senator Ritchie.

“I’m pleased to provide this funding, which will help the Belleville Henderson Central School District upgrade its playground, and in turn, improve opportunities for outdoor recreation that help kids stay healthy and the type of learning that takes place beyond the walls of the school.”

“Here at Belleville Henderson, we’re constantly working to make sure students have the best opportunities to learn and grow,” said District Superintendent Rick Moore.

“Senator Ritchie has been a great partner in helping us to achieve that goal, and we cannot thank her enough for this recent show of support which will make much-needed upgrades to our district’s playground possible.”

Aimed at making the more than twenty year-old playground safer, the renovations will also feature new equipment designed to encourage children to be more active.  The district is expected to begin making improvements next summer and will likely complete them by the start of the 2016 school year.

Funding secured by Senator Ritchie builds upon her past efforts to improve recreational opportunities for children and families in Jefferson County.  Earlier this month, she announced $50,000 for improvements to the playground at Watertown’s historic Thompson Park. 

Final release of funds is subject to state approval.