October 9, 2025 Submitted by Recreation Commission Chair Vicki Donlan
On October 8 the Hingham Recreation Commission celebrated the Hingham Community Playground’s official opening. The playground, located behind Town Hall, actually opened to an enthusiastic public on July 3 after closing for 9 months for a complete renovation.
The original playground built in 1999 by a dedicated committee of Hingham residents and organizations had outlived its time. The equipment had become outdated, unsafe, and was unable to meet today’s accessibility requirements. “The Hingham Community Playground is now able to greet guests of all abilities and encourages children of all abilities to grow and learn through play,” Vicki Donlan, Recreation Commission Chair, said.
The new playground was funded by a grant of $1,055,228 from the Community Preservation Committee (CPC) and donations from Best Chevrolet; Hingham residents Rita and Kevin Gill and Kathi and Bryce Blair; and many generous donations by the Hingham Recreation community. “Working with Hingham residents is key to the Recreation department’s success, said Hingham Recreation Director Mark Thorell.
“Due to the recommendation of faithful playground users in addition to the canopy over the little tyke area 8 new trees were planted to help shade the playground.”
The new 14,000 square foot playground is now the envy of the South Shore with a child-size school house, barn, lemonade stand, swings, climbing structures for all ages and, everyone’s favorite, a zip-line. “Many residents were saddened to see the old playground go, but I am sure no one is disappointed with this state-of-the art facility,” Donlan told the Hingham Anchor.