The following is an ‘Ask The Mayor’ question submitted to TLS, and the Mayor’s response. Email your questions for the Mayor to [email protected].

Question:

Hi there is a beautiful new playground that we have watched over the past year being put up it looks done but there’s still cones blocking the entrance my kids really wanna go when will it be open?

Response from Mayor Coles:

Good morning

That is a county facility. The good news is that it is scheduled to open on November 6. I just received an invitation to the ribbon cutting. I hope they will let me try out a few of the heavier duty sides.

Thanks

Ray

Question:

Thank you for all you do for Lakewood and beyond. My toddler and I have been watching the new ocean county park from day one of the construction to finally enjoying it this past Friday afternoon. It’s a beautiful new park. I do have some critique though. As far as parking how come they didn’t make more spots? Also for any child to go on the slides you need to climb on the climbing thing why didn’t they put stairs? And lastly 3 swings?? It’s a million dollar park they could have added more swings.. It’s nice and all but just wish some more thought went into it thanks.

Response from Mayor Coles:

Good morning.

I had the pleasure of attending the ribbon cutting this past week. It is an amazing space. Part of the expense was to make it into a multi purpose area, where parents can use the exercise equipment and still keep an eye on the children while they play. They also made sure to have different types of slides and activities appropriate to many age groups.

I admit I was intimidated by rope access to the tall slides. I thought about giving it a shot but then realized what it would look like when a picture of me tangled in the ropes appeared in the Scoop, and thought better of it! I did have a great time watching Committeeman Meir Lichtenstein enjoying the zip line!

I do not have an answer as to why there is no ladder access, other than the height. This is a county facility and project. I will reach out to them and see what the reasoning was and see if there is any way to make some adjustments.

I hope you enjoy the new facility. I can’t wait to get my grandkids over there, for the smaller slides of course!

Thanks

Ray

Question:

Dear Mayor Cole,

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing as a proud Lakewood resident to kindly request the Township’s consideration for adding tennis and pickleball courts at Vine Avenue Park.

Vine Avenue Park has become a vibrant and well-loved recreational space for families and residents of all ages. However, many community members—myself included—have noticed the growing interest in both tennis and pickleball throughout Lakewood. These sports provide healthy, inclusive, and family-friendly opportunities for exercise and social connection.

Adding courts at Vine Avenue Park would not only enhance the park’s offerings but also encourage more residents to stay active locally, without needing to travel to neighboring towns for these amenities. The park’s existing layout and accessibility make it an ideal location for this addition, and it would undoubtedly serve the surrounding neighborhoods well.

I truly appreciate your ongoing efforts to make Lakewood a wonderful place to live and raise a family. Thank you for considering this request, and I would be happy to discuss this idea further or assist with community feedback and support.

Response from Mayor Coles:

I sent this to public works to see how we may be able to accommodate your request.

Ray

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Have a question for the Mayor? Send it to [email protected]

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