Council backs grant application to rebuild Friendly Playground; DPW says design and match funds are in place

The City of Cranston on Nov. 6 approved a resolution supporting an application for a 2026 Green Space/Outdoor Recreation grant to replace and upgrade the Friendly Playground.

Councilwoman Graziano sponsored the resolution and asked that it be referred; council members moved to support the application and referred the item to the ordinance committee. Councilwoman Horoyan described the playground as dated and said new equipment would serve toddlers through 12‑year‑olds and provide safer, accessible play opportunities for the neighborhood. She and others described the park as serving families and seniors in a densely populated area near a busy roadway.

DPW Director Frank Correo said the administration has a design draft ready, has identified matching funds (percentage discussed but the exact figure referenced during the meeting varied between 20% and 25%) and expects to seek planning and development public hearings before construction. Correo said the grant application is being prepared with grant staff and the city anticipates a spring construction start if the grant is awarded and planning approvals are obtained.

The council approved the resolution by roll call. Council members asked that planning and grant documents be included when the item returns for final approval so the full council may review the safety and design elements prior to construction.

Ending

The resolution to support the grant application passed and the administration will proceed with the grant submission and planning steps.