South Mill Pond Playground
Having received the needed wetlands permit from the NH Department of Environmental Services, this project started with the installation of construction fencing and a silt sock on September 29, 2025 and is expected to be completed in a matter of weeks. The playground remains closed for safety during the construction.
This project, included in the capital budget for FY25, is to replace the existing South Mill playground with a new, universal design, ADA-compliant, age-friendly, inclusive playground. Along with the playground overhaul, phase 2 of the project will include the addition of ADA-compliant, family-friendly restroom facilities instead of the port-a-potties, and also includes an upgraded parking lot.
The goal is to convert South Mill Pond Playground into the most utilized, dynamic, barrier-free destination playground for Portsmouth and its visitors and the gold standard for Universally Accessible and Inclusive playgrounds.
The playground is part of the Recreation Department's South Mill Pond Recreation Complex that incorporates pickleball, basketball and tennis courts, as well as Leary Field and the dog park. This area is also host to multiple city events such as the July 3 fireworks and the Easter Egg Hunt.
The design, created by Ulti-Play Parks & Playgrounds, meets and exceeds the latest Americans with Disabilities Act and Universal Design standards.
Project Informational Survey - Live now!
The design team for the South Mill Pond Park seeks to develop a community-supported implementation program to improve this open space resource. This survey will be focusing on the playground area and parking improvements project.
The reinvigorated playground is intended to be an exciting destination for the City of Portsmouth and its visitors. Improvements will increase the use and enjoyment of this public land while integrating it into the surrounding context. The City strives to implement the goals from the Portsmouth 2025 Master Plan, such as: creating spaces that are Vibrant, Authentic, Diverse, Connected, and Resilient. The design intent is to incorporate those planning themes with a focus on developing universal accessibility (providing access to all bodies) and inclusivity (providing sensory elements for all cognitive abilities).
Please let us know your thoughts on what this space should be!
Take the survey here or by clicking the image above.
A first public input meeting was held October 28, 2024 in City Hall Council Chambers.