Dartmouth playground reopens after being torched in March

DARTMOUTH – After months of waiting, children visiting the Dartmouth waterfront now have a new and improved pirate ship playground at Alderney Park.

In March 2013, the old structure was burned beyond recognition by vandals, but with a $50,000 grant from the Kiwanis Club, the city decided to rebuild the much-loved structure, putting up an additional $200,000 to see it become reality.

The project was $100,000 over budget, but the mayor said it was well-worth the cash.

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The playground itself is unique — the first of its kind in the country. Built with special cushioned ground cover for safety, the apparatus is entirely wheelchair accessible.

“Everybody is so glad because it’s like a phoenix rising from the ashes,” said Marianne Rissesco of the Kiwanis Club. “And it’s made of practically indestructible material, which is a really good plan.”