STAMFORD, Conn. - s4story -- Stamford, CT — Families from across Stamford gathered to celebrate the grand opening of the Sue McGraw Friendship Playground at Mill River Park. The ribbon cutting ceremony, held Saturday, June 21 from 10 AM to 12 PM, welcomed hundreds of children and their families for a morning of music, crafts, treats, and playtime in the Park's newest attraction.

One of the beloved features of the Park, the original Mill River Park Playground was built in 2006 by 1,500 volunteers over just five days. Nearly two decades later, the new Sue McGraw Friendship Playground marks the next chapter—an upgraded space designed to be safer, more accessible, and more inclusive for children of all abilities to enjoy.

Made possible by a generous gift from the Suzanne McGraw Foundation, with additional support from the Connecticut State Department of Energy & Environmental Protection, the new playground honors the spirit of community and friendship that defined Sue McGraw's longstanding support for children and families. The vibrant play space features colorful, modern equipment that encourages imagination, movement, and connection.

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In addition, Mill River Park also recognized the generous support of skincare manufacturer Beiersdorf, a longtime part of the local Stamford-area community. In celebration of its 100th anniversary, Beiersdorf's brand, Aquaphor, is contributing 100 trees and shrubs to the playground, to enhance the lush and inviting landscape that surrounds this dynamic play space. Beiersdorf is also sponsoring the playground gardens, with an initial bulb planting this fall by employee volunteers. Their support will continue in the years ahead through the ongoing growth and maintenance of the gardens, ensuring that the space remains colorful and welcoming throughout the seasons.

"This playground is a joyful new chapter for Mill River Park and for our city," said Arnold M. Karp, Chair of the Board at Mill River Park Collaborative. "Thanks to the Suzanne McGraw Foundation, the Connecticut DEEP, and Beiersdorf, we now have a space that will bring laughter, energy, and connection to the heart of Stamford every day. It's a place where childhood memories will be made."

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State Representative Corey Paris, who helped secure key State funding for this playground, shared: "The Sue McGraw Friendship Playground is a powerful example of what community investment looks like. It's not just swings and slides—it's a commitment to our children's well-being and to creating spaces where all families can feel welcome. I'm proud to support Mill River Park and the continued revitalization of downtown Stamford."

Mill River Park Collaborative continues to lead efforts in transforming Stamford's urban core into a vibrant, inclusive green space for residents and visitors of all ages. Visit https://www.millriverpark.org for details.