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Phoenix community comes together to rebuild burnt down playground

Posted at 7:44 PM, Dec 01, 2018
and last updated 2018-12-01 21:44:00-05

Nearly six months after a fire destroyed a playground for handicapped children, a new playground is going up in its place.

Back in the early morning hours of June 4th, 2018, Phoenix fire says someone set the playground at the Arizona Recreational Center for the Handicapped on fire. The fire caused thousands of dollars in damage leaving only the metal frame of the playground standing.
 
The management at the facility said nearly 60 kids were about to start summer camp on the day that the fire started and they were devastated. 
 
Estevan Lopez is one of them. The 19-year-old says he loved playing on the swings and called the fire “terrible.”
 
On Saturday, he was on hand and took part in the volunteer day to help rebuild the playground that he loves.
 
“I see everybody pitching in and making it all exciting today,” said Lopez.
 
Nearly 230 volunteers gave up their Saturday to help rebuild the playground at a price tag of $200,000.
 
“It’s not a cheap thing to build. This has to be ADA certified playground,” said Jose Moreno, Senior Director of Marketing and Communications for the Fiesta Bowl.
 
The Fiesta Bowl was one of many organizations that took part in today’s project. Other volunteers included FireVet, a non-profit that helps veterans prepare to become firefighters. Danny Marmorstein is one of them and was on hand to help.
 
“I started Thursday you know kinda prepping things, I was out here digging holes, moving dirt through wheelbarrows,” he said. “Just being able to volunteer with those guys and those girls and give back has just really ben spiritually fulfilling for me.”
 
Officials say the playground will officially open Saturday, December 7th, and should be ready for kids to play on very soon. 
 
“Thank you for coming out and supporting our A.R.C.H playground,” said Lopez.