The summer playground program at South Whitehall has become so popular additional funds will be needed to provide adequate staffing and to cover the increased costs of activities for this season.

At the Feb. 17 meeting, Randy Cope, manager of parks and recreation, reported 437 children participated in last year’s playground, a 35-percent increase over the previous season.

Historically, the township has not charged fees for the six-week, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. program.

However, to maintain and build upon the successful summer series, Cope requested and received approval from commissioners to charge a fee to those who participate.

He indicated in a survey distributed to parents last year, 71 percent of respondents were willing to pay a fee for their child to attend.

The base fee will be $100 for one child. The cost for two children from the same household will be $175 and for three children $225.

Each additional child, from four or more in the same household, will add $25 to the cost.

Cope explained in return for the fees, he plans to offer additional field trips and will extend the program from six to seven weeks.

“I think we have one of the best playground programs in the area,” Cope said. “It is jam packed with activities.”

He noted the program includes a variety of offerings, such as arts and crafts, sports, games, and field trips.

Cope also said Parkland Community Library personnel conduct storytelling, and sometimes outside groups such as the Wildlands Conservancy, come in with presentations and activities.

Although field trips have not yet been scheduled for this year, Cope said a visit to the DaVinci Center, an outing to the Lehigh Valley Zoo, and an opportunity for bowling are possibilities.

The program, designed for children ages 6 to 12, takes place at Cetronia, Kratzer and Parkway Manor elementary schools.

In case of rain or excessive heat, activities move indoors to the school gymnasiums.

“We have a great working relationship with Parkland School District,” Cope said. “South Whitehall helps maintain its baseball fields. They help us in summer. We work great together.”

He reported the 2016 summer playground budget has been set at $25,000, with $22,500 to be generated from the new fees.

“We are a very reasonable rate compared to fees for day care,” Cope said. “This is an affordable option for families.”