In January 2025, professional installers broke ground for a new playground at Green Street Park. They quickly faced challenges due to groundwater issues. At this time, DPW is waiting for a long stretch of warm, dry weather to develop a solution.
The installers have not been able to pour the cement footings needed to anchor the play structure due to the wetness of the property. Each time the holes are dug for the footings, they are quickly filled with water, making it impossible for the cement to set appropriately.
Installers have tried using pumps to avoid excess water, digging trenches to divert water, and bringing in drainage materials, all with no success. DPW has considered a catch basin but does not believe it is a viable solution.
At this time, our plan is for the DPW to dig test pits during a long stretch of warm, dry weather. If the water can be managed with pumps, the professional installation crew will prioritize Green Street playground’s completion. If this cannot be done by the end of summer 2025, a new plan will be developed.
While the delay in this project is disappointing, the Town of Abington remains committed to the revitalization of our parks, playgrounds and open spaces. We are also excited to announce an additional $60,000 was granted for phase 2 of the Green Street Playground revitalization at Town Meeting through the Community Preservation Committee. Funding for a new playground and two street hockey rinks at Arnold park, was awarded and will be supplemented by third-party grant money.