CANTON -- State Senator Patty Ritchie announced that she has secured $50,000 in funding to help the Canton Central School District cover the cost of upgrades to its Banford Elementary School Playground.

An inspection of the near 30-year-old structure by a BOCES health and safety team deemed the playground to be satisfactory for the short term, but warned the district that the risk of splinters and potential injuries would likely cause the playground to be condemned in the future.

Funds secured by Senator Ritchie will cover the district’s cost for repairs, as well as the purchase and installation of its new, nautical-themed playground component.

“We have to keep showing our children that going outside, being active and playing with their friends can be a lot of fun,” said Senator Ritchie. “A school playground is the perfect place for them to do that. I’m extremely happy that the students at Banford Elementary now have a playground where they can get out, have some fun, get some exercise and do so safely.”

“As a result of Senator Ritchie’s efforts, our school children and community visitors join the literally thousands of children and visitors who have enjoyed Canton Central School’s unique outdoor playground adventure park over the past two generations,” Canton. “We thank her for securing this funding, and for helping to preserve this truly beloved community resource for many years to come,” Central School District Superintendent William Gregory said.

The repairs included the application of a special sealant for the wood aspects of the playground and the full replacement of some boards and deteriorating apparatus.

Recently, Senator Ritchie also announced that she had secured $200,000 to help the Canton Central School District pay for a new permanent restroom/concession stand at its State Street Athletic Complex.