NIAGARA FALLS, N.Y. -- After more than 20 years, Gluck Park is getting a new look. Volunteers and certified installers started rebuilding a new playground there in Niagara Falls on Friday.

The former structure was in desperate need of an upgrade. The new playground comes equipped with swings, sidles and a rock climbing wall. The $75,000 project was paid for through a federal Housing and Urban Development Community Block Grant.

Members of the local Boys & Girls Club on hand say providing a place where kids can let loose, run free and have fun builds great life skills through positive play. 

The work is part of Niagara Falls overall revitalization strategy to improve area parks in several local communities. 

City leaders say making neighbors stakeholders in the construction of playgrounds builds positive community relationships.

"A neighborhood park is a place for kids to go. They can call it their own. They appreciate when their parks get attention, because they want to spend time in the parks. They want to do constructive things, if we create those opportunities," said Seth Piccirillo, Niagara Falls community development director.

"Having something right here, easily accessible that's safe, fun, engaging, is crucial because kids can only be structured so much," said Rebecca Vincheski, Niagara Falls Boys & Girls Club.

The group hopes to finish the project on Saturday and open the playground next week.