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Council backs Cranston's application for 2026 green‑space grant to rebuild Friendly Playground
Summary
The council voted to support Cranston's application for a 2026 Green Space Outdoor Recreation grant to replace and upgrade Friendly Playground equipment; officials said the city has matching funds and plans for a spring public‑hearing and construction in the following season.
The Cranston City Council on Nov. 6 approved a resolution supporting the city's application for a 2026 Green Space Outdoor Recreation grant to fund replacement and upgrades at Friendly Playground.
Councilwoman Graziano sponsored the resolution and said the playground serves children and seniors in a densely populated neighborhood near a high‑traffic area; council members described the existing facility as outdated and in need of safety and accessibility improvements. Council members thanked Senator Vargas for her assistance in the application process.
Director of Public Works Frank Correo said department staff and a grant writer have a draft plan ready and that the city has matching funds available (discussed during the meeting as in the 20–25% range) to meet grant requirements. He said a public hearing will be scheduled through planning and development and that, absent obstacles, construction could begin in the spring with completion timed for summer use.
Council voted by roll call to move the resolution out of committee and to record support for the application. Council members asked staff to continue community engagement and to finalize grant materials for submission.
The resolution does not obligate full funding in the absence of a successful grant award; the director said the city has letters of support and has completed much of the preparatory design work.
