An aerial view of Gloucester Township’s Field of Dreams – an adaptive baseball field – offers a glimpse of the playground site.
Local officials, community leaders and donors gathered on July 10 to break ground on Gloucester Township’s long-anticipated Jake’s Law Playground at the Valleybrook Sports Complex.
Mayor David R. Mayer and other officials saw what will soon be a fully inclusive, sensory-friendly playground designed to welcome children of all ages and abilities.
“This playground fosters connection, acceptance, and interaction,” said Mayer. “It strengthens our community by promoting equity and quality of life for all residents. It was a special day today, announcing the building of this space that brings joy to so many.”
Jake’s Place playgrounds are named for Jacob Cummings-Nasto, who died from complications of heart surgery at 2-and-a-half years old. His death inspired Jake’s Law, landmark state legislation aimed at promoting inclusive play spaces.
The township’s Jake’s Law Playground will be located next to what the town calls its Field of Dreams, an adaptive baseball field the mayor describes as one of the most impactful projects of his tenure.
“If you’ve ever had the chance to attend a Field of Dreams game, you’ll understand the magic,” Mayer explained. “The players’ smiles, the support from coaches and volunteers, it’s one of the greatest things I’ve been part of as mayor. And now, Jake’s Place will only add to that joy.”
The groundbreaking also highlighted the power of local partnerships in the playground effort. Pennco Tech Vice President Jason Hobyak and COO Chris Ryan produced a $20,000 donation, while Maryjo and Frank Dintino – the township’s Field of Dreams board member and coach, respectively – gave a $25,000 gift.
“Our administration has always believed in investing in inclusive spaces,” Mayer noted. “This project came together through the support of our community members, businesses like Pennco Tech and the leadership of our legislators.”
Attendees at the groundbreaking included state Sen. Paul Moriarty; Assemblymen Dan Hutchison and Cody Miller; Michael Epifanio of Triad Associates, a Vineland developer of affordable housing; and Arthur Aston, executive director of Build Jake’s Place.
Set in the heart of Clementon at 247 Little Gloucester Road, the new playground will complement the Valleybrook Sports Complex and Field of Dreams diamond.
“This is a space where everyone belongs,” Mayer observed. “And it’s only possible because of our community coming together.”
