A discussion that began on the Milton Neighbors Facebook group about the condition of Milton’s playgrounds led to the formation of Milton Playground Planners, Inc. (MPP), a volunteer-based non-profit organization seeking to revitalize the town’s community spaces. The group will be holding a kickoff fundraiser at Steel & Rye in Milton on Tuesday, January 26th from 7-10 p.m. The event will feature several raffles including prizes such as a lottery basket, food baskets, and gift cards to popular retail stores.

Proceeds from the event will go toward renovating the four existing town-owned playgrounds located at Andrews Park, Kelly Field, Mary C. Lane Park and Shields Park with the goal of making them safe and accessible to children and families of all ages and abilities, including those with physical limitations. Initial design proposals for the new playgrounds will be on display at the event. Tickets are available for purchase online at www.eventbrite.com and cost $40 in advance or $50 at the door.

Multiple playground contractors have submitted designs for each playground and MPP is hoping to raise over $750,000 by the end of the year with the hope of beginning construction in 2017. The proposed budget also includes a maintenance fund to assist with annual upkeep.

While MPP is working in conjunction with Milton Town Officials, the town has limited financial resources for this endeavor; therefore MPP was formed with the purpose of raising funds, community awareness and sponsorship of fundraising initiatives to support this project.

For information about future events, to get involved or donate, please visit their website, www.miltonplaygroundplanners.com, or join the Milton Playground Planners page on Facebook.