A Tamaqua playground that was shut down in April due to safety concerns is thriving.

“The South Ward Playground is open. It is back up and running,” Councilwoman Kathy Kunkel said at Tuesday evening’s regular borough council meeting.

She noted that the free lunch program for children began on Monday and brought several dozen children and adults.

In addition, she said the Revive Community Fellowship Church of Tamaqua is hosting programs for the youths.

“The kids aren’t just going there to eat, they actually have some activities to do,” Kunkel explained.

The South Ward Playground Association, which oversees the park, recently revised bylaws, and members expect to meet June 13 to review them, Kunkel said. New officers were also recently elected.

The playground was locked on April 20, the day after Councilman Ron Bowman aired safety concerns with council.

Volunteers and community groups spent the following weeks repairing faulty equipment and sprucing up the facility and its grounds. Council allowed it to reopen on May 19.

While much has been accomplished, there are a handful of items that need to be addressed, including the replacement of some equipment.

Kunkel said the park opens at 8 a.m. and closes by about 10 p.m. to prevent overnight access.

Council President Brian Connely encouraged the association to contact the borough if it needs assistance with organizational matters.

“Just to note that code enforcement and borough staff have been working with the other playgrounds to identify any other issues outstanding that they may have as well and to make sure they are doing what they need to do,” Connely said. “Maybe - I shouldn’t say it - maybe it turned out to be a good thing.”