ABERDEEN- The opening of Veterans Park in Cliffwood Beach, which was scheduled for July 13, has been postponed due to a fire that occurred last month.
No new opening date has yet to be announced, according to a press release from Aberdeen Township.
According to the press release, the annual car show and “Doo Wop” event that also was scheduled during opening day on July 13 at Veterans Park has been shifted to Guisti Field in Cliffwood Beach.
The fire on June 11 destroyed structural components of the beachfront park’s new playground. Township officials were informed that there will be another two-week delay in receiving the replacement parts, according to the press release.
Deputy Mayor Margaret Montone said that the delay hurt the progress.
“Our contractor for the project was ready, willing and able to add construction crews to complete the project by July 13, but the parts have not arrived,” Montone said.
Township officials put off the opening due to safety precautions.
“After much discussion, our engineer, attorney and contractor have advised us that opening without being 100 percent complete would create unsafe conditions for our children,” Councilman Joseph Martucci said. “While this is extremely disappointing, public safety is our paramount concern.”
The park, which is located at Ocean Boulevard and Lakeshore Drive, will feature a multi-dimensional active and passive recreation area, including a pirate and tall ship themed playground areas for ages 2-5 and 5-12; a pirate ship themed water park (spray pad) for all ages; a picnic grove with shade structures; a multi-purpose field for little league, softball, and soccer; a kayak and small water craft launch; a gazebo/band shell; a flagpole and War Veteran’s Memorial Monument; and a restroom/equipment/storage building.
“We will keep the public informed on a new opening date,” Montone said.