Visitors to North Lake Park on North Lake Drive have likely noticed a new addition: large, colorful shade sails now covering the swings overlooking Lake Carasaljo. These eye-catching structures are a rarity in public parks, but Lakewood Township went the extra mile to install them in response to resident feedback.
Following the installation of new playground equipment last year, parents praised the improvements but raised concerns about heat buildup and sun glare during the summer months. In response, Mayor Ray Coles and Deputy Mayor Menashe Miller spearheaded efforts to find a solution.
“We received rave reviews about the new play equipment, but parents also told us the sun made it uncomfortably hot,” said Mayor Coles. “So we worked together to find the best possible solution and made it happen.”
The project was a collaboration between Mayor Coles, Deputy Mayor Miller, DPW Director Phil Roux, DPW Project Manager Tony Arecchi, Engineer Tony Poklasny, and other township officials. The newly installed shade sails offer UV protection, shielding children from excessive sun exposure while also preventing playground equipment from overheating.
Positioned strategically to face Lake Carasaljo, the iconic lake that provides ample sunshine to the park, the hurricane-proof shade sails are professionally anchored and designed to withstand Category 1 hurricane winds.
In addition to the new shade structures, the park now features a rubberized flooring system, replacing traditional mulch. This upgrade enhances safety and comfort, offering better protection for children at play.
“Seeing families and children enjoying this beautiful playground is a testament to good governance,” said Deputy Mayor Miller. “We are grateful to Mayor Coles and all the township officials who worked together to address resident feedback and make North Lake Park even more enjoyable for our community.”
