Verona Park: Playground Redesign

The Essex County Park System is one of the oldest and most expansive in New Jersey. One of its jewels, Verona Park, is the fifth-largest park in the system, spanning 54 acres and featuring a central lake, concession and meeting space, walking and jogging paths, green space, courts, a children’s garden, and a playground. As a destination park for the County, Verona Park has seen a series of recent improvements, and the time had come to upgrade the fifteen-year-old playground. The existing facility presented several challenges, including difficult site topography, an underutilized shade pavilion, and decentralized play areas that limited connectivity and engagement.

Arterial was tasked with reimagining the playground to address these constraints while creating a more cohesive and imaginative play environment. By leveling a central area for the new playground, an “adventure hill” was formed at the rear of the site, rising over eight feet in height. This feature incorporates slides and multiple climbing elements, creating a continuous, dynamic play experience that spans much of the playground. A path along the top of the hill weaves together various park elements, including the previously disconnected shade pavilion. Age-appropriate play equipment supports both younger and older children, ensuring inclusive and safe play throughout the site. Additional elements include a rubberized safety surface, new fencing and sidewalks, a seatwall, and benches. These improvements were executed thinking of durability, accessibility, and long-term usability within this landmark County park.