OCEAN COUNTY – From all-abilities playgrounds to Revolutionary War-era landmarks, the Ocean County Department of Parks and Recreation was recently honored with two statewide awards for its dedication to accessibility, preservation, and public engagement.

During the 2026 Awards Program for the New Jersey Recreation and Park Association, members of the Parks Department were joined by Ocean County Commissioner Robert S. Arace, liaison to the department, and Commissioner Deputy Director Jennifier Bacchione to accept the awards. The association's Awards Program recognizes outstanding leaders, employees, and volunteers in parks and recreation, highlighting agencies across New Jersey for excellence in programming, facility design, innovation, and public service.

The department received the Excellence in Playground Design Award for the Inclusive Playground at Eno's Pond County Park in Lacey Township and the Gregory A. Marshall Parks and Historic Resources Award for its stewardship of Cedar Bridge Tavern Historic Site in Barnegat Township.

"These awards highlight the incredible work our Ocean County Parks Department does every day to serve our residents and preserve the places that make our county special," said Commissioner Robert S. Arace, liaison to the Department of Parks and Recreation. "Whether it's creating inclusive spaces where every child can play or protecting historic sites like Cedar Bridge Tavern, our parks continue to enhance quality of life and connect our community to both nature and history."

The Inclusive Playground at Eno's Pond County Park was funded through the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection's Jake's Law grant, which encourages playgrounds that exceed Americans with Disabilities Act standards. The playground features a pour-in-place rubber surface, sensory play area, accessible swings for a child and caregiver, a slide and other equipment designed to accommodate children with mobility or other disabilities.

The Gregory A. Marshall Parks and Historic Resources Award recognizes efforts to protect natural resources and historic sites through environmental stewardship, education and preservation initiatives. Cedar Bridge Tavern Historic Site, built around 1816, sits near the site of the Affair at Cedar Bridge, one of the last engagements of the American Revolutionary War. The site serves as both a cultural and educational resource, giving visitors insight into early life in the Pine Barrens.

The Ocean County Board of Commissioners applauded the Parks and Recreation staff for their dedication, creativity, and tireless efforts. Their commitment to maintaining safe, accessible, and educational spaces throughout the county ensures that residents and visitors alike can enjoy the natural, recreational, and historic resources Ocean County has to offer.

For more information about Ocean County Parks and Recreation, visit www.oceancountyparks.org.