Gronk Playground, Opening Spring 2025!

The Esplanade Association, in partnership with the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), Rob Gronkowski, and the Gronk Nation Youth Foundation, aims to renovate the Charlesbank Playground, located on the Charles River Esplanade between the Science Park / West End MBTA station and the Blossom Street Footbridge.

The Gronk Nation Youth Foundation made an extraordinary contribution, pledging over $1.5 million towards the complete renovation of the Charlesbank Playground! The beloved play area  will undergo a transformation, emerging as the Gronk Playground in early 2025.

Upon completion, Gronk Playground will foster a space where children can play, learn, and thrive, while bringing families together from across the metro Boston area and beyond! The design for the new playground will prioritize a modern approach to play equipment and increased physical fitness opportunities for children of all ages and abilities. Additionally, they’ll encounter scaled-down replicas of some of Boston’s most iconic landmarks, adding an element of fun and local charm to the space.

This exciting project, set to commence construction in March 2025, represents a collaborative effort between the Esplanade Association, the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), and a host of dedicated individuals and organizations. Alongside the Gronk Nation Youth Foundation’s significant contribution, recognition and immense gratitude is extended to former Patriots Tight End Rob Gronkowski, the Gronkowski Family, Susan Hurley of CharityTeams, State Representative Jay Livingstone, State Senator Sal DiDomenico, and longstanding partners DCR, for their instrumental roles in making this endeavor possible!