The sound of children's euphoric laughter could be heard during the September 30th ribbon cutting for the reopening of the Building 64 NIH East Child Care Center playground.
Led by the ORF Project Officer Derrick Whitaker, ORF Contracting Officer Ana Marie Pagulayan, and construction contractors Olgoonik's Harry Borden, the L.A. Group, REF Engineering's Steven Buckner, Ernest Bland Associates, Hunt Valley Contractors, John Jacobs, and LB Jacobs, ground was broken in March 2024 for the new playground.
“This brand-new play yard is built with the highest standards in mind, guided by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) Accreditation." – ORS Director Colleen McGowan
This venture is the outcome of a 2021 project plan that includes improvements to play equipment, installed safe trike track and lawn areas, shaded seating, storage sheds, and soft place surfacing.
In addition, a state-of-the-art storm water management system was installed. This new system will eradicate stagnant and sitting water on the playground.
"NIH should be an example to other childcare programs of how to design a play space that meets many different developmental needs of children. The playground is well-designed, highlights the natural features, and offers creative spaces where children will be engaged in play for decades to come. Well done, NIH." – Dr. Johnson Deputy Director for Management
Susan Borst, the Child and Family Programs Manager, opened the ribbon cutting ceremony by thanking the many people involved with the project as well as the dedicated DATS staff and POPI community for their patience and flexibility as well as Events Management for providing a temporary play space at Natcher during the construction project.
