By Susan C. Moeller / Senior Reporter

LYNDHURST (Nov. 26, 2009) — Lyndhurst’s newly refurbished Town Hall Park received high marks in the recently released “The Playground Guide, Best of Bergen County, NJ.”

The park, located behind town hall off Valley Brook Avenue, was one of only 11 parks to receive the highest rating offered by the guide — five stars — a guarantee that children will love the playground and want to visit again. More than 200 parks were rated.

The next highest rated park in the South Bergen area was the Kidspot at Memorial Field in Rutherford, which received four stars, according to publisher Amy Lamperti.

The guide includes information about parking, handicap accessibility, equipment and the availability of bathrooms, which is critical for young children. “There’s a lot of detail in the book,” Lamperti said. “Everything you’d want to know as a mom.”

Revamping the park was a platform project for the board of commissioners. A Lyndhurst builder designed the space, which includes new fenced-in playground equipment. The park also offers a spray-and-splash area, lighted fountain, bocce court, gazebo and bandshell. New landscaping and walkways have also been installed.

But that’s not the end of the upgrades. A drop-off lane is under construction along Court Avenue

“We’re proud of the distinction,” stated Commissioner of Parks and Public Property Thomas DiMaggio about the favorable review. “It’s hard to believe that not long ago the park used to be overgrown with weeds, with an outdated and unsafe playground, and an unwelcoming weathered gazebo.”

“Today, Town Hall Park is the center of activity for this community and a source of pride for this township,” he continued.

Mayor Richard DiLascio agreed.

“In just over a year since its grand opening, Town Hall Park has become a destination park, an iconic symbol of a revitalized and vibrant Lyndhurst,” DiLascio stated. “The real success is not only in the increased recreational opportunities we’re affording our residents, but in the increasing value we’re bringing to every Lyndhurst home, which is fast becoming a desirable address in Bergen County.”

Childhood memories inspired Dawn Marie Hunczak to write the guide.

“I knew there had to be a ton of great playgrounds in the area, and I decided to go find them,” Hunczak stated. “I hope it enhances your journey with your kids.”