Help Shape the Future of Joey’s Park

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Public Invited to Take a Survey and Share Memories

Belmont, June 5, 2012 — The Friends of Joey’s Park Committee is seeking public input on the future of the beloved playground. Anyone who has ever enjoyed Joey’s Park is invited to take a five-minute survey at http://joeyspark.org/. The public is also invited to share favorite memories and photographs of the park for use on the Friends of Joey’s Park website. Email memories and photographs to friends@joeyspark.org.

Status of Joey’s Park

Joey’s Park was closed down briefly last November because of safety concerns. Repairs were made, but they are temporary fixes. Joey’s Park – located next to the Winn Brook Elementary School in Belmont – is 23 years old. Playground inspectors expect a life span of 20 years on this type of park. The Friends of Joey’s Park Committee is looking into both repair and replacement options.

History of Joey’s Park

The park was built in 1989 in memory of Joey O’Donnell. Joey lived a full life while battling an incurable disease: cystic fibrosis. He attended the Winn Brook Elementary School and was a student at the Chenery Middle School when he died at the age of 12. His friends came up with the idea of a playground, private citizens made contributions big and small and the whole community came together for a massive “community build”. The result is the play structure that exists today honoring Joey’s life and spirit.