MIDDLEBORO — At a Jan. 22 meeting, the Middleboro Select Board unanimously voted to approve a contract that will allow Peirce Playground at 26 Jackson St. to be replaced with new equipment on a surface of astroturf.

The equipment currently in use at Peirce Playground has been in place since 1993.

Middleboro resident Ed Pope often takes his grandchildren Otis, Cody and Piper to Peirce Playground. “They spend most of their time on the bridge and the swings,” he said.

According to Middleboro Facilities Manager Matt Foye, Piece Playground is "probably the most popular destination in town. We really want to knock this out of the park."

Foye is the manager responsible for the planning and installation of the new playground.

Foye gave a presentation at the meeting which included images displaying how the playground will look as well as a breakdown of the cost of the project.

According to Foye, the estimated cost of the project is $539,692.

As per the newly approved contract, $350,000 of federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds will go towards the playground. Massachusetts Chapter 40R community funds, will cover $147,000 of the cost. Peirce trustees will give $100,000 towards the playground and $50,000 of state earmark funds will go towards the project.

The total funding for this project leaves an extra $107,308 for contingency.

Ultiplay Parks and Playgrounds, a playground equipment supplier based in Blackstone, Massachusetts, was chosen as the vendor. Foye said that he received many positive references from others who have worked with Ultiplay.

According to Town Manager Jay McGrail, the town has been assured installation will take place by June.

Foye said that there will be a section of the playground catered to ages 2-5 and the rest of the playground will be catered to ages 5-12.

According to Foye, there will also be a pavilion for parents to use “to get out of the sun”.