Playground Build
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We have scheduled Tuesday, August 11 through Sunday, August 16 as the dates to build our new playground under the direction of Play By Design out of Ithaca.
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We need you! If you’re interested in donating your time and talent for the entire build or can only commit to a portion of the August 11-16 build, there is room for you!
Contact Ashley Hoffman at 585-506-7409 to let us know how you want to help.
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The cost of building this playground is covered by the Capital Improvement Project approved by voters in 2024 and the playground will be built in August. However, there are opportunities to expand the project and donations can help make these opportunities a reality. We have set a fundraising goal of $50,000 to cover these additional builds.
Recognition is available as follows:
Friends ($100-$499)
- Donor or business name listed on HCS website
Changemakers ($500-$999)
- Donor or business name listed on HCS website
- Donor or business name listed on physical recognition at playground
Leaders ($1,000-$4,999)
- Donor or business name listed on HCS website
- Donor or business name listed on physical recognition at playground
- Donor or business name listed in HCS newsletter
Champion ($5,000+)
- Donor or business name listed on HCS website
- Donor or business name listed on physical recognition at playground
- Donor or business name listed in HCS newsletter
- Donor or business name recognized on sponsor signage on display during the build
Contact Kristen Kester at kristindkester@gmail.com if you’re considering a donation. If you do not wish to be recognized publicly, please mark your gift as “anonymous” on the giving slip.
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Included here are links to sheets that lists tools and items needed for the construction of the new playground at Honeoye Central School District.
Construction is the week of August 11. If you can provide tools on the list or materials, please contact Jessica Lyon at jseeber615@gmail.com.
Please note that the tools are not donations and will be returned.
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We have formed a number of committees to handle a variety of needs leading up to and including the build dates in August. Leading the effort are General Coordinators Betsy (Nagel) Delisanti, Class of 1999 and Jennifer (Maloney) Geartz, Class of 2006.
Please reach out to either or both with general questions and they can direct you to the destination specific to your request.
Betsy: 585-402-4191
Jennifer: 585-748-0659
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Below are two renderings of what we hope our new playground will look like, although these are not final and may undergo some changes as the planning continues.
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Here is a list of Frequently Asked Questions regarding the August 11-16 playground build:
If the cost of building this playground is covered by the Capital Project, why are you asking for donations?
While the cost of the initial build is covered by the Capital Project that voters passed in 2024, the opportunity to add more the playground is possible through additional fundraising. The fundraising goal is an additional $50,000, which will help finance the construction of bonus items for the playground to enhance the visitor experience of all ages. Any amount is welcome and appreciated and all donations more than $500 will receive physical recognition on the playground. For more information on what type of physical recognition is available, see the Fundraising/Donation tab.
If you’re able to make a donation, please contact Kristen Kester at kristindkester@gmail.com.
I helped build the existing playground. Can I have a part of the playground as the new one is built?
While we understand the sentimental attachment to the existing playground for many in our community, the pressure-treated wood used to construct it cannot be re-distributed due to health concerns presented by chemicals used to treat the wood. We do plan to preserve every plaque that is currently on the playground and portions of the playground will be re-purposed into the new playground although those items will be out of reach for activity. (Example: existing peaks can be used as part of new entry points). The final plan for re-purposing portions of the existing playground remain in consideration and the district will make those details available publicly once they’ve been finalized.
Why a Community Build?
Bigger Playground: The finished playground’s value will be at least double its cost. Play by Design works within all budgets, and volunteer labor, donated materials and grant opportunities help maximize savings.Community Pride: People of all ages come together to build it, celebrate at the opening and share a lasting sense of ownership and accomplishment.
Flexible Design: Each design reflects the community—incorporating local themes, natural play elements and accessible features for children of all abilities.
Quality Materials: Environmentally friendly, arsenic-free materials and a variety of safe surfacing options ensure durability and sustainability.
This page is dedicated to news and updates for the new playground that will be built at Honeoye Central School District as part of the Capital District Improvement Project that was approved by district voters in 2024.
Updated Playground Design
As of January 5, 2026
As of December 12, 2025
Design Day
On Monday, November 10, Play By Design visited the district and, using input and feedback from students, unveiled an initial plan for the new playground. View the renderings below, keeping in mind that adjustments and changes can be made throughout the process.
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Here are some photos from the meeings the Play By Design representative had with Honeoye students and the November 10, 2025, meeting with the community.
Playground Design to be Unveiled on November 10
Be sure to save this date: November 10.
Funded through our already-approved capital improvement plan, this project will create a bigger, more inclusive playground. And on Monday, November 10 at 6 pm, Play By Design will unveil the final playground design! The process begins before that as Play By Design staff works with Honeoye students to create and collect visions for the playground. During the day on November 10, Play By Design will study drawings, sketches and outlines submitted by Honeoye students and by the time we meet at 6 pm, Play By Design will have a rendering inspired by our students.
Be sure to join us for the November 10 meeting to see the unveiling!
The Build Process
At this time, we do not yet have enough volunteers to commit to a full community build, but we’re confident more people will want to join once Play by Design begins its work with us.
The November 10 meeting marks the start of our community’s journey to bring an incredible new playground to life. Anyone interested in getting involved, whether on a planning committee or as part of the build itself, should plan to attend. If you’ve already signed up or simply want to learn more, this is the meeting to be at!
We can’t wait to see you on November 10 as we take this exciting next step!
Why a Community Build?
Bigger Playground: The finished playground’s value will be at least double its cost. Play by Design works within all budgets, and volunteer labor, donated materials and grant opportunities help maximize savings.
Community Pride: People of all ages come together to build it, celebrate at the opening and share a lasting sense of ownership and accomplishment.
Flexible Design: Each design reflects the community—incorporating local themes, natural play elements and accessible features for children of all abilities.
Quality Materials: Environmentally friendly, arsenic-free materials and a variety of safe surfacing options ensure durability and sustainability.