Two months after an arson destroyed a playground in Lancaster County, the community is coming together to rebuild it.
The Kids Joyland Playground was leveled in the fire, but Wednesday morning the re-building process kicked off with a $5,000 donation and a community plea for more.
With bulldozers and donated time, the playground came closer to restoration.
The 100 X 100 foot playground was burned to the ground two months ago, and two local teens are suspects. Gas cans were found at the scene and there were reports that the explosion could be heard miles away.
But the crime wasn't the focus on Wednesday. It was about rebuilding, with the community's help.
Borough Manager Scott Hershey says they learned recently there is no insurance money for the playground. "We thought there was, but unfortunately not, so we have to start from square one. But that initial $5,000 really kick started it for us."
The full cost won't be known until a design for a new park is chosen, But Hershey hopes support and donations from the community will cover the new park.
The old one was built on $115,000 in donations.
Hershey says the community is ready to rebuild. "It's a hurdle (the cost) we'll get over it. The community came together and saw that we're excited. We're looking forward to keeping the project moving."
Donations and ideas for the new playground can be sent to or dropped off at the Borough Office.
The Kids Joyland Playground was leveled in the fire, but Wednesday morning the re-building process kicked off with a $5,000 donation and a community plea for more.
With bulldozers and donated time, the playground came closer to restoration.
The 100 X 100 foot playground was burned to the ground two months ago, and two local teens are suspects. Gas cans were found at the scene and there were reports that the explosion could be heard miles away.
But the crime wasn't the focus on Wednesday. It was about rebuilding, with the community's help.
Borough Manager Scott Hershey says they learned recently there is no insurance money for the playground. "We thought there was, but unfortunately not, so we have to start from square one. But that initial $5,000 really kick started it for us."
The full cost won't be known until a design for a new park is chosen, But Hershey hopes support and donations from the community will cover the new park.
The old one was built on $115,000 in donations.
Hershey says the community is ready to rebuild. "It's a hurdle (the cost) we'll get over it. The community came together and saw that we're excited. We're looking forward to keeping the project moving."
Donations and ideas for the new playground can be sent to or dropped off at the Borough Office.
