People standing and cheering at Jaycee Park when the ribbon was cut to open the playground.

The Greendale community came together on June 11, 2025, to celebrate the grand opening of a brand-new playground at Jaycee Park. The event was filled with excitement and joy as families, kids, and community leaders gathered to see the new play area.

Welcomed by Mr. Ryan Broderick, the Greendale Park & Recreation Director, the event included recognition and praise for the many people who helped make the playground a reality, specifically recognized were Dr. Amidzich and the Board of Education, the Greendale Park & Recreation Committee, the Park & Recreation Ad Hoc Committee, the High School Garden Team, Park & Recreation staff, and Jonathan Mitchell and Steve Coombs, Greendale Schools district administrators who coordinated the building of the playground. Broderick also expressed his sincerest thanks to Ad Hoc committee member and Village resident Mrs. Dany Sun, who made sure the playground was accessible for all kids.

“The new playground was designed with input from the whole community. In fact, the final design was chosen by a community vote, with 60% of people picking the winning design,” Broderick said. "This isn't just a playground—it's a place built with purpose and community spirit. We're so proud of what we've created together."

The highlight of the event was the cutting the ribbon to officially open the playground. Everyone cheered as the ribbon was cut, and kids couldn't wait to start playing. After the ribbon cutting, Broderick reminded everyone about the Greendale Education Foundation’s Schools Out event later that afternoon. He also thanked Scott Fisher from Gift of Wings for donating popsicles for everyone to enjoy.

The new Jaycee Park playground is now open for all Greendale families to enjoy. It's a special place where kids can have fun, make friends, and create happy memories for years to come.