Copyright © 2012 The Friends of Hayes Park, Inc.

When Hayes Park was redesigned in 1992, the children’s play area became a quick favorite of families throughout the South End, and those visiting from areas all over Boston.  Constructed of wood, and featuring a “tower loft”, the structure allowed for hours of adventure play while fitting in nicely with the park theme.  The area was also beloved for its huge sand pit, the largest in Boston. 

Time, however, had taken its toll on the play area, and a new design was needed to not only repair the structure, but also to ensure that it would meet current standards for safety and accessibility. 

During summer 2009, the Friends worked with Paragon Landscaping to design and install a new structure that would be as durable and attractive as the old structure, but also meet current needs.  The new structure, constructed of durable and attractive real wood like the old structure, includes more play areas, and of course, the well-used slide, while meeting new accessibility requirements.  The sand pit remains in place, but is augmented by a rubber surfacing that provides greater protection and permits children of all capabilities to access the structure.

The structure officially opened on June 27, 2009, with Mayor Menino cutting the ribbon, and all reports from our small ones indicate that it is a resounding success!

When long-time Hayes Park Board Member, Conrad Agneta, died in January 2010, the Park lost a strong advocate and friend. Conrad was a steadfast Hayes Park supporter, cleaning the park and working on the annual auction. In his will, Conrad generously left the Friends a $5,000 gift. Board members are currently considering several ways to spend the money to honor Conrad’s memory and service.