An innovative outdoor learning center and playground is in the works at Rochester Childfirst Network on South Avenue.

A ceremonial groundbreaking Friday started the construction process for the new amenities, which will feature an all-season playground with water and sand play areas. The new play area will be tailored to appeal to kids of all ages.

“This allows children to run, jump, play,” said Lynn Lubecki, CEO of Rochester Childfirst Network. “It sparks curiosity. It’s a calming effect. Outdoors and trees and grass, it has a calming effect but it also encourages healthy movements just because I want to get from here to there.”

The project is expected to be finished in June 2018.