The Edgewood Highland School community proudly announces the grand reopening of the Edgewood Highland Playground, marking a significant milestone in local efforts to enhance public spaces and support student well-being, according to a press release. After being shut down just two days before the 2023 school year, this beloved playground is now fully renovated and ready to welcome students and families once again.

The reopening is the result of a remarkable community initiative spearheaded by Bridget Graziano PTO Co-President, and now candidate for Ward 1 City Council, PTO Member Aubrey Collins, and Lammis J. Vargas current City Council Vice President (Ward 1) and now State Senator-elect of District 28. These individuals, along with five dedicated parents, worked tirelessly to secure support from the Council, funding beyond dwindling American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) monies, ensuring the playground was replaced with a high-quality, safe facility.

Vargas, had been voicing for a number of months to the administration that there were much needed improvements to many recreational spaces, such as the Smith Street, DuTemple School Park, Commercial Street, and Edgewood Highland Playground, then Edgewood was abruptly shut down.

The playground’s previous condition raised significant safety concerns, which the administration was well aware of before the shutdown. Despite this, the playground was left open through prior years, and then closed abruptly in early September 2023, prompting these community advocates to step in and address the situation.

“Safe, inclusive, and modern playgrounds should be the standard for children in all areas of our city,” Vargas said. “I am grateful to the PTA and my City Council colleagues for their support and listening to not only my concerns, but of the community. I’m very excited that as a result of my advocacy and of the community, we now have two brand new playgrounds in the area I represent of Ward 1, plus a few others throughout the city that will get a spruce. I look forward to the City of Cranston making the best effort to maintain and continue investing in our recreational spaces that are very much important for the development of our children.”

“A group of strong women got together as the school-year kicked off, and we were upset. But, rather than complain these moms turned to action, speaking at the City Council, working through the administration, and not stopping until we saw progress,” Graziano said.

In addition to the playground project, this same group of parents undertook a successful fundraising effort to repaint the exterior of Edgewood Highland Elementary. Previously an eyesore, the school now boasts a vibrant and welcoming appearance thanks to contributions from local families, businesses, and local artist and Edgewood Highland parent Amy Sloan.

The fresh coat of paint has transformed the school from an uninviting structure into a warm and engaging environment for students.

This revitalization project exemplifies the power of community action and dedication. In less than 18 months the new playground and refreshed school exterior provide not only improved safety and aesthetics but also foster opportunities for children and families to build new friendships and strengthen community bonds.

A reopening event has been tentatively scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 25, at 10:30 a.m.