Lake George Central School District has been awarded an incredible $1.1 million grant through New York State’s NY PLAYS initiative, paving the way for a new, modern and inclusive playground that will serve Lake George students, families and the greater community for years to come.
The award is the result of months of planning and collaboration led by Business Administrator Bonnie Hart, who worked tirelessly to develop the district’s grant application. The process also included an important student voice. Lake George Elementary School Lighthouse students participated in the planning process last year, helping provide ideas and input that contributed to the vision for the future playground.
“We are thrilled and grateful to receive this NY PLAYS grant. Play is essential to our students’ growth. It builds friendships, creativity, and healthy habits that last a lifetime,” said Superintendent John Luthringer. “Our current playground has served Lake George students well for decades, and this funding allows us to reimagine it as something more innovative and engaging for today’s learners.”
Luthringer noted that the impact will extend far beyond the school day.
“This playground is also a true community space. Families and community members use it regularly throughout the year, so this investment will benefit the entire Lake George community for years to come,” he said. “I am incredibly proud of our team and our students, whose ideas helped shape this vision, and I can’t wait to see it come to life.”
For Hart, the announcement marks the culmination of countless hours spent preparing the district’s application and thoughtfully planning a project that will benefit Lake George students and the community for years to come.
“So many extra hours went into planning and preparing for this grant opportunity, but now every one of them feels worth it,” Hart said. “This $1.1 million grant will turn that dream into an inviting, accessible and modern playground for our littlest learners, our community and the many families who visit Lake George each year.”
The Lake George award is part of $67.5 million in NY PLAYS grants announced for 89 playground projects across New York State. The funding will support the construction, expansion and renovation of public playgrounds, with an emphasis on creating accessible outdoor spaces where children of all abilities can play, stay active and connect with their communities.
For Lake George, the funding represents an opportunity to transform a playground that has served generations of children into a space designed for the future, while continuing its role as a gathering place for the entire community. Additional information, including construction plans, the project timeline and anticipated start dates, will be shared as details are finalized.