Keene Park Playground Unsafe
2016 photo
The Town of Weston Parks and Recreation Department has scheduled the removal of the playground structure at Keene Park on River Road due to ongoing public safety concerns, vandalism, and repeated graffiti that compromised the integrity of the equipment. The Public Works Department staff will remove the structure in the next two weeks.
Keene Park has been a valued community space since the 1970s as Weston’s first public park. The playground, constructed in 1999 through a community-led effort, has served generations of local families for more than two decades as a gathering place for recreation and connection.
In recent months, the playground has experienced escalating vandalism and damage. Routine inspections identified safety hazards that could not be adequately addressed through standard maintenance or repairs.
Despite increased monitoring, repeated cleaning, and repair efforts, the structure continued to deteriorate. Continued investment in repairing an aging and repeatedly damaged playground was no longer a sustainable or fiscally responsible use of public resources. Removal became necessary to ensure the safety of park visitors.
“The safety of our residents — especially our children — is always our top priority,” said Joe Parciasepe, Parks and Recreation Director. “While we understand this playground held special meaning for many families, we could not allow continued use of equipment that posed a risk of injury.”
The Town recognizes this decision may be disappointing and appreciates the community’s understanding. Parks and Recreation will begin evaluating future options for the site, including potential park improvements.
Community input will be encouraged as planning moves forward. Updates will be posted on the Parks and Recreation website (westonct.gov/parksandrec), Town Hall Happenings, Facebook, Instagram, and through the Everbridge Community Alert System under “Parks and Recreation Updates.”
Residents are encouraged to report vandalism or suspicious activity to local authorities or the Parks and Recreation Department. Maintaining safe and welcoming parks is a shared community effort.
For additional information, please contact: Joe Parciasepe, Parks and Recreation Director
Weston Parks & Recreation
203-222-2584
Jparciasepe@westonct.gov