The Town of Grafton officially celebrated the opening of its new Fitness Court® outside the Municipal Center, marking a major step forward in the community’s commitment to accessible health and wellness. Blending its bucolic New England charm with an ongoing dedication to modern, resident-centered services, Grafton brought together local leaders, statewide partners, and community members for a high-energy launch event.

The ceremony began with remarks from Emcee Evan Brassard, Town Administrator, who welcomed attendees and reflected on the significance of the project. Brassard emphasized the town’s enthusiasm for expanding outdoor recreation and wellness opportunities, sharing: “The Town is incredibly excited to be opening a new fitness facility for our residents to use and is pleased with the outcome of our partnership with NFC and Blue Cross Blue Shield. With the convenient placement of the new Fitness Court, located just outside our Senior Center and within walking distance of two schools and the Police Station, we know that many residents and Town employees will be able to make use of the equipment to live a more active, healthier life.”

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Select Board Member Ann Marie Foley spoke about the origins of the project. Traveling across the country, she noticed outdoor fitness equipment in other communities and wanted to bring a similar opportunity to Grafton. Through her work on the American Rescue Plan (ARPA) Committee, Ann saw the press release for the Worcester Fitness Court launch and brought the idea to the committee, which quickly supported the initiative. Already connected to someone at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, she inquired about the Fitness Court, and the project gained momentum from there. As a physical therapist, Ann tried the Fitness Court herself and was impressed by the app’s adaptability for all fitness levels. She expressed her excitement for the community: the new outdoor Fitness Court will allow residents to experience high-quality fitness in an accessible, engaging, and outdoor setting.

State Representative David Muradian presented the Town of Grafton with a citation on behalf of the Massachusetts House of Representatives, signed by Speaker Ron Mariano, in recognition of the joyous occasion of the Fitness Court grand opening. Muradian noted that Speaker Mariano looks forward to using the Fitness Court, while the membership extended its best wishes and expressed hope for future good fortune for the town and its residents.

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Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts also highlighted the impact of the project. Jeff Bellows, Vice President of Corporate Citizenship and Public Affairs, said:
“Blue Cross is committed to helping people live healthy lives and eliminating the physical and social barriers that lead to health disparities. We’re proud to partner with NFC and Grafton to launch a Fitness Court that will provide Grafton residents with a communal gathering space and access to premiere free outdoor fitness opportunities.”

Stephen Fay, Director of Municipal Sales at BCBSMA, added: “I also want to recognize our outstanding partners at the National Fitness Campaign who continue to make these transformative projects possible. When BCBSMA made the decision to support public Fitness Courts, one of our priorities was to expand free, equitable access to outdoor exercise programs in communities across Massachusetts. This is the 19th Fitness Court we have opened since 2022, which is a lot in a short period of time. This expanded facility creates even more opportunities for programming, classes, and community connection right here in Grafton.”

Following the remarks, the emcee called local leaders and partners together for the ceremonial ribbon cutting, drawing the crowd as the newest Fitness Court in Massachusetts was officially opened to the public. Shortly after, Grafton Recreation Department Ambassadors kicked off a Fitness Court demonstration, showcasing beginner and advanced movements across all seven workout zones. With music playing and community members gathering around, the demonstration emphasized the Fitness Court’s adaptability for users of all ages and fitness levels.

The excitement continued with a head-to-head Fitness Court Challenge featuring members of the Grafton Fire Department, adding a spirited, competitive moment that highlighted the fun and community-building power of this new resource. Residents and visitors also had the chance to try the equipment firsthand, guided by Program Ambassadors and members of the Grafton Police Department.

Created through a partnership between the Town of Grafton, BCBSMA, and NFC, the Fitness Court provides free, world-class outdoor fitness in a central location near municipal buildings—making it easily accessible to residents, students, seniors, and town employees. Open during daylight hours, the Court serves as a hub for movement, activity, and community connection.

Grafton’s successful launch continues the momentum of the growing Fitness Court network across Massachusetts—bringing communities together, strengthening public health, and inspiring residents to live more active, healthier lives.