Twp. completes park improvements EDISON - The township completed its newest round of park improvements this week, with new and upgraded playground equipment being added to five different parks. "Neighborhood parks are an asset to our community. They are a place for children to play and exercise and a place for families to spend time together. We're committed to making large improvements to residents' quality of life. This is a small improvement, but one that makes a big difference for people in the area," said Edison Mayor Jun Choi. According to township records, five parks received major improvements: North Eighth Avenue, which received $52,197; Swales, which received $42,978; Paternini, which received $39,136; Dwyer, which received $44,191; and Crestwood, which received $51,647. An additional $43,129 was spent for safety and borders. All funds for the new equipment came from the township's Park Improvement Funds, which is fueled by developer fees paid to the township. All the parks received similar improvements, which include a new modular playground unit with slides, a gazebo, a climbing wall, and new swing sets. Some of the new park items also have educational features with phrases and numbers in both English and Spanish, as well as a map of the United States and the solar system. According to Jerry Barca, township spokesman, the parks were chosen for improvement based on perceived need and neighborhood input. There are no other park upgrades planned as the winter approaches, but Barca noted that improvements are a continuous process. In all likelihood, additional parks will be evaluated in the spring to see whether they are in need of additional improvement.