On these short, wintry days, it’s good to imagine sunny playgrounds full of laughing children. You may have noticed that Killingworth is gradually renovating the playgrounds at Sheldon Park. I’d like to bring you up to date on our progress.

As usual in our town, the project is a combined effort of the town government, independent civic groups, and public-spirited individuals.

In Fiscal Year 2015-’16, the town voted to spend $40,000 in capital funds on the Sheldon Park playgrounds. The Park & Recreation Commission has begun to install new equipment purchased with those funds. The toddler “wonderland” includes three mushrooms and a caterpillar, spring riders for individuals and groups, and some new swings—including a saucer swing designed to encourage social play and to be accessible to children who cannot use traditional swings.

The Killingworth Lions Club is generously donating $12,500 in equipment for somewhat older children, including a climbing structure and a swing set. They are also contributing the labor to install it this spring. As part of the 100th anniversary of Lions International this year, local clubs are undertaking legacy projects, and the Sheldon playground will be the Killingworth Lions’ legacy project.

Once all the new equipment has been installed, Park & Rec will complete the project with new edging and safe surface material.

The Killingworth Women’s Organization will hold a fundraiser at June’s Outback on Thursday, March 30, from 6 to 9 p.m., to raise money for additional equipment. Look for more information on this “Italian Dinner” evening.

Meanwhile, the town has awarded the bid to extend ADA-accessible pathways at Sheldon to make a complete circuit and a paved, accessible fishing platform by the pond. Work should begin as soon as asphalt plants open in the spring.

Thanks to all who are helping to create another space for Killingworth families to come together and grow strong children.