By Oakland Local Editorial Team

Children's Fairyland in Oakland has a new attraction - The Jack & Jill Hill.

The opening ceremony for this ride was on Wednesday, July 25. 

"In keeping with our commitment to fostering a kinder, gentler world for today's kids, we're thrilled to offer Jack & Jill Hill as a way of encouraging the kind of physical exercise and outdoor exploration that many local children are lacking," C.J. Hirschfield, the executive director for Children's Fairyland, said. "I will be on hand to answer questions and speak to the significance of the new 'ride,' which exemplifies the park's low-tech, high-touch approach to engaging young children."

The inspiration for the bright green sliding hill comes from a viewing of a similar attraction at the Santa Barbara Zoo two years ago. The Jack & Jill Hill, which is covered by astroturf, was made possible in part by a grant from City Councilwoman Jane Brunner, with construction led by Oakland-based builders McGuire and Hester. It also serves as the theme park's newest attraction in four years.

"Fairyland is an Oakland success story that keeps getting better for each new generation of Oakland's kids," Brunner said.

For Mike Hester, the president of McGuire and Hester, having the opportunity to be a part of a project like this was a dream come true.

"It has been a long-standing tradition that our company gives back to the communities in which we work," Hester said. "We are fortunate to be able to contribute and proud to have participated in building Fairyland's newest attraction."

If You Go

Jack & Jill Hill opening ceremony

Where: Children's Fairyland, 699 Bellevue Ave. in Oakland

When: 11 to 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 25