Hillsdale Community Playground
Finalizing Phase 1
Rieke Elementary is Hillsdale’s neighborhood school and a vital part of the Hillsdale community. With the support of community members and civic organizations, the Mary Rieke PTA launched a fundraising campaign to build a new playground in 2017.
Phase 1 construction was completed that summer in coordination with refurbishing of the athletic field. The new, architect-designed, play area now includes a rope climber, obstacle course, trees and natural play elements, picnic facilities for families and updated games and activities on the asphalt areas of the playground. Importantly, a pathway was laid to the parking lot between Wells High and Rieke, creating a link to Rieke and the neighborhood and ensuring inclusive access to the playground and fields.
While we were able to complete much of the initial plan, even adding an element recently, a few key elements remain unfunded. We will begin fundraising for this during the ‘23-24 school year. Once funded, students and children from the community will be able to play on one continuous challenging play structure.
Thank you to those who supported the playground this year. For the ‘22-23 school year we raised funds to complete the following maintenance projects.
Replaced the basketball hoops with lower breakaway rims in the covered area
Added a Triple Throw Game
Adding a permanent surface to the Gaga Ball court - - IN PROCESS to be installed this fall.
Rieke Playground Before
Playground Today
