RED HOUSE — Two new playgrounds will be built in Allegany State Park as part of a $2.6 million commitment for 12 new or improved playgrounds at 10 state parks across the state.

One is already under construction near Red House Beach. The other will be built on the Quaker side of the 65,000-acre state park.

It is part of a goal Gov. Andrew Cuomo proposed to modernize 100 state park playgrounds as part of the NY Parks 2020 Initiative.

“With this investment, we are ensuring our park system remains second to none and I encourage families from near and far to get out and explore all New York has to offer,” Cuomo said in a prepared statement.

Under the initiative, the state park will replace outdated playgrounds at the parks with code-compliant equipment, improve accessibility for people with disabilities and create distinct areas for young and older age groups.

Playground construction will be coupled with site improvements, including shade trees or canopies, seating, water fountains and trail/walkway connections to the rest of the park.

“Playgrounds encourage families with children to engage in healthy, active and creative play, and nurture a love of parks and recreation,” said State Parks Commissioner Rose Harvey. “I’m grateful to Governor Cuomo for investing in safe, attractive parks and drawing more young people to our great outdoors.”

In Allegany State Park, a natural wood themed playground with sand play features and a low zip line will be located just off the Red House Lake Beach next to the bathhouse.

In the Quaker area, funds will be used to replace and expand an existing playground at the Quaker Run Picnic Area with natural wood themed equipment with three elevated towers and net climbing features.

Construction will take place in the coming months. The playgrounds are expected to be ready for use next summer.

(Contact reporter Rick Miller at rmiller@oleantimesherald.com. Follow him on Twitter, @RMillerOTH)