Columbiana Project Playground has received a $25,000 grant from the Columbiana Community Foundation. From left, Mallory DeMaiolo, Ginny Perkins, Fritz Nelson, Lauren Halverstadt and Michaela Good. (Submitted photo)

COLUMBIANA — An inclusive playground project is getting closer to being realized thanks to yet another grant from the Columbiana Community Foundation.

Columbiana Project Playground (CPP) announced it received a $25,000 grant from the Foundation, making it their third generous contribution to the initiative.

“This latest award underscores the Foundation’s continued commitment to enhancing quality of life in Columbiana and represents one of the largest community-driven projects the organization has supported in recent years,” Columbiana Project Playground said in a press release announcing the grant.

The new playground has been a goal for the community in recent years and is currently at $640,000 raised of the $680,000 needed for the project.

The plan is to create a new all-inclusive playground where the Firestone Funland playground in Firestone Park has been since 1995.

The city began discussing the need for a handicap-accessible playground at least three years ago.

The Columbiana Project Playground also said in the press release that the new playground is more than just a recreational space, but a long-term investment in accessibility, inclusion, and community connection.

“This project represents what’s possible when a community comes together with a shared vision,” Michaela Good, CPP President, said. “The Columbiana Community Foundation has been an incredible partner throughout this journey, and their continued support brings us one step closer to creating something truly special for generations to come.”

The CPP hopes that additional funding can be raised through upcoming events, including a Ladies Night at Sundog on May 14 from 5-9 p.m.

The event will feature an evening of music, along with the new Berry-Go-Round Cider, a curated charcuterie board, and the chance to win exciting raffle prizes, all while supporting the playground project.

Donations can also be made to the project at playatfirestone.com

The CPP said that while the project has made meaningful progress, recent weather challenges–including prolonged rain and colder temperatures–along with unexpected construction plan hurdles and remaining funding needs, have caused delays to the original timeline.

Organizers emphasized that the priority remains building the playground the right way.

“We’re committed to doing this right the first time,” Good said in the press release. “That means ensuring proper drainage, grading, and long-term durability so we can avoid costly maintenance issues down the road.”

The CPP team is actively coordinating materials, finalizing landscaping plans, and preparing for a successful and memorable grand opening, according to the release.

“We’re incredibly grateful for this community and the unwavering support we’ve received,” Good said. “We’re getting closer every day.”

For more information, to donate, or to get involved, visit playatfirestone.com.