SYRACUSE, N.Y.(NCC News) — Imagine a playground weathered by time, its structures fading, and the joy of children diminishing. The Village of Minoa finished the upgrades made to a local park, putting the play back in the playground. On Tuesday, local officials gathered for a ribbon cutting ceremony to open Lewis Park.
Families have returned to the newly upgraded playground, where a beloved character named Noa the Dinosaur is located and treasured by kids. Mayor Bill Brazill said when the renovations for the playground started, families were concerned about the dinosaur. They can rest easy because Noa is still at the park.
“I reassured everyone, somehow, some way if he’s not back at Lewis Park, he’ll be somewhere in Minoa. We will not get rid of him,” said Brazill.
The playground’s upgrades were designed with Noa in mind. The 20-year-old dinosaur, Noa, named after the Village of Minoa, is treasured by kids who often refer to Lewis Park as the dinosaur park. For many years the playground has been a cherished destination for families.
“I think that all the kids love it. I mean there’s usually a little bit of fighting going on about sitting on the dinosaur so I’m glad to see that they kept it,” says Danielle, mother of four.
Brazill will continue to look for funding in hopes of putting a Splash Pad in the park.
Playgrounds are more than just spaces for children to run and play. They are vibrant hubs where families come together to create lasting memories, foster growth, and promote a sense of community.