Playground Build
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We have scheduled Tuesday, August 11 through Sunday, August 16 as the dates to build our new playground under the direction of Play By Design out of Ithaca.
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We need you! If you’re interested in donating your time and talent for the entire build or can only commit to a portion of the August 11-16 build, there is room for you!
Contact Ashley Hoffman at 585-506-7409 to let us know how you want to help, or click on this link to sign up!
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The cost of building this playground is covered by the Capital Improvement Project approved by voters in 2024 and the playground will be built in August. However, there are opportunities to expand the project and donations can help make these opportunities a reality. We have set a fundraising goal of $50,000 to cover these additional builds.
Recognition is available as follows:
Friends ($100-$499)
- Donor or business name listed on HCS website
Changemakers ($500-$999)
- Donor or business name listed on HCS website
- Donor or business name listed on physical recognition at playground
Leaders ($1,000-$4,999)
- Donor or business name listed on HCS website
- Donor or business name listed on physical recognition at playground
- Donor or business name listed in HCS newsletter
Champion ($5,000+)
- Donor or business name listed on HCS website
- Donor or business name listed on physical recognition at playground
- Donor or business name listed in HCS newsletter
- Donor or business name recognized on sponsor signage on display during the build
Contact Kristen Kester at kristindkester@gmail.com if you’re considering a donation. If you do not wish to be recognized publicly, please mark your gift as “anonymous” on the giving slip.
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Included here is a short list of tools and items needed for the construction of the new playground at Honeoye Central School District. Updated on July 20, 2026.
Short list of items we still need to borrow for the Playground Build
(#) = how many we still need
- Folding Style Tables for volunteer sign in & tool sign out (6)
- Pop up Tents (10), one should be at least 15x15
- Tarps 20x30 (3) in case of rain for coverage
- Tape Measure, must not be curled (24)
- Speed Squares (27)
- Wheel Barrows (17)
- Shovels (18)
- Rakes (18)
- Post Hole Diggers (4)
- Levels 48” or Longer (11)
- 10” Miter Saw (3)*
- Slide Compound Miter Saw (1)*
- Portable Table Saw (1)*
- Cordless Circular Saw (4)* (*no stands or blade needed for any saws. Must have safety guards in place)
- Cordless Drills & Impact, one of each with battery for each (27)
- Routers ¼” shank (2)
- Laminate Router ¼” shank (5)
- Orbital Sanders (3)
- Quick Clamps, large with openings larger than 7 inches (11)
- Pipe Clamps, 4 to 8 ft long (5)
Construction is the week of August 11. If you can provide tools on the list or materials, please contact Jessica Lyon at jseeber615@gmail.com.
Please note that the tools are not donations and will be returned.
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We have formed a number of committees to handle a variety of needs leading up to and including the build dates in August. Leading the effort are General Coordinators Betsy (Nagel) Delisanti, Class of 1999 and Jennifer (Maloney) Geartz, Class of 2006.
Please reach out to either or both with general questions and they can direct you to the destination specific to your request.
Betsy: 585-402-4191
Jennifer: 585-748-0659
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Below are two renderings of what we hope our new playground will look like, although these are not final and may undergo some changes as the planning continues.
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Here is a list of Frequently Asked Questions regarding the August 11-16 playground build:
If the cost of building this playground is covered by the Capital Project, why are you asking for donations?
While the cost of the initial build is covered by the Capital Project that voters passed in 2024, the opportunity to add more the playground is possible through additional fundraising. The fundraising goal is an additional $50,000, which will help finance the construction of bonus items for the playground to enhance the visitor experience of all ages. Any amount is welcome and appreciated and all donations more than $500 will receive physical recognition on the playground. For more information on what type of physical recognition is available, see the Fundraising/Donation tab.
If you’re able to make a donation, please contact Kristen Kester at kristindkester@gmail.com.
I helped build the existing playground. Can I have a part of the playground as the new one is built?
While we understand the sentimental attachment to the existing playground for many in our community, the pressure-treated wood used to construct it cannot be re-distributed due to health concerns presented by chemicals used to treat the wood. We do plan to preserve every plaque that is currently on the playground and portions of the playground will be re-purposed into the new playground although those items will be out of reach for activity. (Example: existing peaks can be used as part of new entry points). The final plan for re-purposing portions of the existing playground remain in consideration and the district will make those details available publicly once they’ve been finalized.
Why a Community Build?
Bigger Playground: The finished playground’s value will be at least double its cost. Play by Design works within all budgets, and volunteer labor, donated materials and grant opportunities help maximize savings.Community Pride: People of all ages come together to build it, celebrate at the opening and share a lasting sense of ownership and accomplishment.
Flexible Design: Each design reflects the community—incorporating local themes, natural play elements and accessible features for children of all abilities.
Quality Materials: Environmentally friendly, arsenic-free materials and a variety of safe surfacing options ensure durability and sustainability.
This page is dedicated to news and updates for the new playground that will be built at Honeoye Central School District as part of the Capital District Improvement Project that was approved by district voters in 2024.
It’s Almost Time!
Our Community Playground Build is just around the corner, and we are excited to share an update as we prepare for construction, which will take place August 11–16.
Over the past several months, countless volunteers, businesses, organizations, and community members have worked together to plan this incredible project. As we enter the final stretch, many behind-the-scenes preparations are underway to ensure a successful build week.
In the days leading up to construction, you'll notice activity on campus as we prepare the site:
- August 3: Crew Leaders and Committee Coordinators met to review the build schedule, safety procedures, volunteer assignments, sign-in processes, site logistics, and other final details to ensure everyone is prepared for build week.
- August 5: Delivery of the on-site storage container.
- August 6: Installation of the volunteer tent.
- August 7 & 8: Tool collection and organization.
During the week of August 11–16, volunteers will come together to build our new community playground. It will be an exciting week filled with teamwork, community pride, and plenty of hard work.
We are incredibly grateful for the overwhelming support we have received; from donations and sponsorships to the many individuals and organizations who have dedicated their time, resources, and talents to this project. This playground truly reflects what can happen when a community comes together with a shared vision.
There's still time to be part of the build! Whether you can give a few hours or several days, we'd love to have you join us. If you're interested in volunteering, please sign up by clicking here.
Not sure what your schedule will look like? Walk-ins are always welcome! Stop by anytime between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. during build week to lend a hand.
A Special Thank You...
A project of this size is only possible because of the incredible people who have stepped up to lead.
We would like to extend our sincere appreciation:
General Coordinators: Betsy Delisanti and Jennifer Geartz
Playground Committee Leaders: Jerry Passer, Jessica and Jesse Lyon, Ashley Hoffman, Kristin Kester, Megan Brandow, Erika Orman, Molly Perrin, Alana Suggs, Marley Kay Peterson, Lindsey Oliveri, and Bob Chavez for the countless hours they have dedicated to planning and organizing this project.
A special thank you also goes to our Director of Facilities, Mike Kestler, and our Business Official, Derek Vallese, for overseeing the many details that are helping ensure the build runs smoothly.
And finally, a HUGE shout-out to our Crew Leaders: Gary Hubble, Rian Milliman, Mark Powell, Rich Bertrand, Chuck Kester, Jesse Lyon, Jessica Lyon, Greg Goodridge, Kevin Bendick, Keith Auble, and Ed Mahosky (with two more pending work schedules). Your willingness to step up, lead teams, solve problems, and keep volunteers organized will be instrumental to the success of our build. Thank you for your leadership, enthusiasm, and commitment to creating something truly special for our community.
Updated Playground Design
As of January 5, 2026
As of December 12, 2025
Design Day
On Monday, November 10, Play By Design visited the district and, using input and feedback from students, unveiled an initial plan for the new playground. View the renderings below, keeping in mind that adjustments and changes can be made throughout the process.
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Here are some photos from the meeings the Play By Design representative had with Honeoye students and the November 10, 2025, meeting with the community.
Playground Design to be Unveiled on November 10
Be sure to save this date: November 10.
Funded through our already-approved capital improvement plan, this project will create a bigger, more inclusive playground. And on Monday, November 10 at 6 pm, Play By Design will unveil the final playground design! The process begins before that as Play By Design staff works with Honeoye students to create and collect visions for the playground. During the day on November 10, Play By Design will study drawings, sketches and outlines submitted by Honeoye students and by the time we meet at 6 pm, Play By Design will have a rendering inspired by our students.
Be sure to join us for the November 10 meeting to see the unveiling!
The Build Process
At this time, we do not yet have enough volunteers to commit to a full community build, but we’re confident more people will want to join once Play by Design begins its work with us.
The November 10 meeting marks the start of our community’s journey to bring an incredible new playground to life. Anyone interested in getting involved, whether on a planning committee or as part of the build itself, should plan to attend. If you’ve already signed up or simply want to learn more, this is the meeting to be at!
We can’t wait to see you on November 10 as we take this exciting next step!
Why a Community Build?
Bigger Playground: The finished playground’s value will be at least double its cost. Play by Design works within all budgets, and volunteer labor, donated materials and grant opportunities help maximize savings.
Community Pride: People of all ages come together to build it, celebrate at the opening and share a lasting sense of ownership and accomplishment.
Flexible Design: Each design reflects the community—incorporating local themes, natural play elements and accessible features for children of all abilities.
Quality Materials: Environmentally friendly, arsenic-free materials and a variety of safe surfacing options ensure durability and sustainability.