Please sign this petition to STOP the demolition of the Essex Park playground, and request a transparent plan of the work that will have oversight and accountability to the ward. 

After speaking to Michele Cammarata, the head of Parks and Rec for Montclair, she informed me that the Montclair town council applied for a grant pre-covid. This grant is paying for the overhaul of Essex Park. While some parts of the overhaul are needed (bathroom improvements, walkways, etc.), the plan unfortunately includes demolition of the entire park, including but not limited to replacing the wood chips with rubber, and possibly some tree removal. The park is in perfect condition, and is one of the only shady parks in Montclair. Additionally, it appears the construction has zero oversite. Parks and Rec are not responsible for it as it is through council-approved grant, but per my e-mails with Robin Shlager, the council is not even aware of the work.