Former New York Giants star Tiki Barber joined with local elected officials on Mon., June 8, to open a state-of-the-art playground at Manhattan Plaza in Hell’s Kitchen.

The complex’s twin high-rises, located on 42nd and 43rd Sts. between Ninth and 10th Aves., are home to more than 3,500 residents, most of whom work in the performing arts.

The new “Play Proud” playground, which sits on the outdoor deck between the two buildings, underwent a full renovation of equipment, surfacing and landscaping using eco-friendly and recyclable materials.

On hand for the ribbon-cutting ceremony were Barber, who founded the playground construction company Tiki Recreation; City Council Speaker Christine Quinn; Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer; Mark Carbone, president of Related Affordable Companies, which owns Manhattan Plaza; Marisa Redanty, president of the Manhattan Plaza Tenants Association; and Richard Hunnings, general manager of the buildings.

The playground digitally displays inspirational messages taken from Barber’s life, including “Dream,” “Envision, Inspire, Achieve” and “Believe in yourself, and others will too.” “Play Proud” is what Tiki Barber’s mother said to him before every game.

Before the space formally opened, the dignitaries had nothing but praise for what was described as the first such playground on the East Coast.

“Hell’s Kitchen is Hell’s Kitchen,” Stringer said after being introduced by Barber. Turning to the new play area, he continued, “Why would you want to mess around on a street corner when you can come here?”

Quinn also complimented Barber and his recreation company, which focuses on improving communities and residents of affordable housing developments through exercise. “That you’ve been able to give back to kids, that’s really remarkable,” she enthused as a big smile spread across Barber’s face. “That’s a credit to you as a human being.”

Quinn concluded by calling Manhattan Plaza, which was built in 1977, “The miracle on 43rd Street.”

Hunnings, the complex’s general manager, said he viewed the playground “as part of preventative maintenance” for children who might otherwise find trouble without someplace constructive to spend their time.

After the ribbon was cut, a swarm of children rushed onto the new playground’s spongy surface to show the adults what it means to have fun.