The Newport News Department of Human Services, in partnership with Parks, Recreation, and Tourism, is launching a collaborative “Safe Zones for Kids” project. With the assistance of neighborhood residents and volunteers from community partners and the faith community, neighborhood connectedness will be improved by creating areas in each of the City’s three districts designated as “Safe Zones” for children and families.

South Morrison Family Education Center on Adams Drive will be the site of the Safe Zone in the central district. The location’s original playground is being revitalized to include a swing set, park benches, picnic tables, and an additional music-themed play structure for young children. Additionally, two basketball half courts will be installed. The South Morrison Safe Zone is expected to be completed and ready for use by the end of 2016. Other Safe Zones will be established in the north and south districts once locations have been identified.

The areas for the Safe Zones were identified through the Asset Based Community Development Youth Leadership project where Newport News teens worked with their neighbors to gather information and establish priorities for what the residents found important. The priorities in many neighborhoods included creating or refurbishing parks, playgrounds, picnic areas, and game rooms for youth and families to enjoy. Each Safe Zone created will be unique to the desires of the neighborhood in which it is located.

The project is funded by the Community Based Violence Prevention grant from the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. Visit FaceBook to learn more about youth leadership and other Prevention Services projects.