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For Immediate Release: June 13, 2025
St. Joseph, Michigan – Berrien County Parks is proud to announce the official ribbon cutting ceremony for the brand-new playground at Silver Beach County Park on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber is excited to host this special event and invites the community to attend to celebrate inclusion, play, and the power of community collaboration.
The new playground replaces an aging structure that had served the park for over 30 years. With increased park visitation and a growing diversity of guests, Berrien County Parks recognized the urgent need for an upgraded, inclusive space where children and families of all abilities can play together—without barriers or limitations.
“This playground was designed with the message: ‘We Want You Here,’” said Jill Adams, Berrien County Parks Director. "The playground and surrounding area invites everyone to enjoy the benefits of play, activity, and community.”
Key features of the new playground include equipment and design that exceeds ADA standards and incorporates Universal Access Design, ensuring that children, parents, grandparents, and caregivers of all ages can play side by side. The playground also allows Southwest Michigan’s aging population to actively engage with younger generations right along the beautiful beaches of Lake Michigan.
Designated a National Demonstration Site through Playcore, the distinction that will help Berrien County Parks gather meaningful data to assess community impact and guide best practices for future park improvements.
The journey to make this playground a reality began in April 2023, when Berrien County Parks was awarded a Michigan Department of Natural Resources SPARK Grant to launch the replacement effort. Under the leadership of Jill Adams and her team, a remarkable $1.25 million was raised—thanks to contributions from over 150 individuals, businesses, civic organizations, and grantors—by the December 2024 deadline. This outpouring of support highlights the deep community investment in the project and its purpose.
“The Silver Beach Playground Project is a shining example of what happens when a community comes together to create a space that welcomes everyone,” said Arthur Havlicek, President & CEO of the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber. “This playground not only provides a safe, fun environment for children of all abilities, but also encourages multigenerational interaction—a vital ingredient for building strong, connected communities. We are proud to support this inclusive and forward-thinking investment in our region.”
All are welcome to attend the ribbon cutting and experience the new playground firsthand. Free parking will be available at the County Park for event attendees. Guests are encouraged to follow the recommended route via State Street to Water Street, then onto Vine and Broad Streets to access the park entrance. Please note there is no event access via the Park Street hill below the bluff.
Berrien County Parks extends sincere thanks to every individual, family, business, and organization who made this incredible project possible.
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