Greenville families gathered on Oct. 22 for the official reopening of the renovated playground at Cleveland Park. The $3.3 million project, which began in early summer, replaces a 17‑year‑old play area next to the Greenville Zoo and adds modern amenities designed for children of all ages.
Modern Play Spaces for Every Age Group
The new playground offers age‑appropriate equipment for toddlers through teens. Little ones ages two to five can enjoy safe, low‑height structures, while older children ages five to twelve have access to ten swings with built‑in shade and a 27‑foot tower featuring multiple slides. For teenagers, a ninja‑style obstacle course provides a challenging, active option.
Zoo‑Themed Learning and Community Gathering
In keeping with the park’s proximity to the Greenville Zoo, the redesign includes animal‑themed scavenger hunts and educational panels that teach kids about wildlife while they play. Two new picnic shelters have also been added, giving families a shaded place to gather for meals or community events.
Funding and Construction
The revitalization was made possible by a $500,000 grant from the Land and Water Conservation Fund, revenue from the city’s hospitality tax, and money from Greenville’s neighborhood infrastructure bond. Triangle Construction carried out the renovation, installing equipment from Carolina Parks and Play and Landscape Structures.
Enhanced Trail Access
As part of the project, a section of the Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail that runs through Cleveland Park was widened, improving safety and accessibility for walkers, cyclists and families using the trail to connect to other parts of the city.
Councilmember’s Vision
Greenville City Councilmember Ken Gibson said, “As Cleveland Park approaches its 100th anniversary, this project builds on the legacy of this park and ensures future generations will have a place to play, gather and enjoy the outdoors.” The councilmember’s remarks underscore the city’s commitment to preserving historic community spaces while updating them for today’s families.
Open to the Public
The playground officially opened to the public at 8 a.m. on Oct. 22. Residents are encouraged to explore the new equipment, enjoy the expanded trail and take advantage of the picnic shelters for family outings or neighborhood gatherings.
With this investment, Greenville continues its tradition of supporting family‑friendly recreation, reinforcing the city’s dedication to safe, vibrant public spaces that nurture community bonds and promote healthy, active lifestyles for children and parents alike.
Original reporting: Greenville Journal — read the source article.
