Goals and Vision for the All-Inclusive Playground!

The city's master plan efforts are in full swing, with the consultant and city staff now embarking to the engagement stage. Going beyond the traditional public engagement meetings, the city is establishing a focus group comprised of subject matter experts. These experts bring extensive firsthand experience in working with individuals with disabilities, those who have personal disabilities, or individuals who serve as caretakers for people with disabilities. This distinguished focus group will serve as an invaluable resource, perfectly complementing the ongoing public engagement efforts.

The primary objective of these collaborative gatherings is to allow the focus group members to act as an essential sounding board. Their role will be to provide insightful critique and invaluable feedback on various critical aspects, including conducting a comprehensive needs assessment, incorporating thoughtful design considerations, and achieving consensus on the overall vision. Ultimately, the city's aim is to create a universally designed playground that is truly 'barrier-free.' This exceptional space will feature inclusive areas of play that offer universal design features catering to individuals of all abilities, both physical and mental.

The following examples showcase the city's commitment to universal design and inclusive play opportunities. However, please note that these examples are subject to change based on the valuable input and feedback received from citizens through the ongoing master planning process.

1. Multi-sensory play
   1. Provide comfortable and supportive sensory stimulation through the natural environment and fabricated playground equipment for the facilitation of self-regulation and social participation
   2. Encourage developmental growth (motor planning skills and social and cooperative play) through the inclusion of the following play experiences: Spinning, sliding/rolling, rocking, swinging, climbing, crawling, arm strengthening, balancing, jumping/bouncing, walking/running, landscape, passive observation, cooperative play, and social interaction
      1. High play value equipment (climbing net structures, integrated elevated and ground level structures, etc.)
      2. Swings and slides catering to various levels of accessibility and age
      3. Musical elements such as outdoor drums or chimes
      4. Incorporation of textures, color, and natural elements (wood, water, stone, etc.)
      5. Opportunities for passive observation and self-regulation
2. Inclusive and Accessible play
   1. Play equipment modified to address the needs of those with physical disabilities, such as additional transfer stations and ramps
   2. Inclusion of equipment and play experiences specially designed for wheelchair use (such as swinging, spinning, and arm strengthening)
   3. Inclusion of equipment that can be accessed with the help of a caregiver, including nest swing, roller slide, etc.
   4. Widened slides for use by older individuals or in tandem with caregivers
3. Social play
   1. Emphasis on equipment and experiences encouraging group play and collaboration.
   2. Clustering of single-user play equipment to encourage group play (i.e., spinners, swings, etc.)
   3. Widened slides accommodating 2+ users
4. Safety, comfort, and access:
   1. Incorporation of play domes or shaded areas to provide a safe and comfortable space for calming, rest, and relaxation.
   2. Antistatic, antimicrobial safety surfacing materials such as synthetic turf with foam padding to cushion falls, reduce static shock interference and inhibit bacteria growth.
   3. Fencing around the entire play structure for safety, security, and peace of mind.
5. Wayfinding and universal communication signage:
   1. Installation of communication boards with symbols or pictures to facilitate communication for individuals with speech impairments.
   2. Addition of braille signage to provide information in a tactile format for individuals with visual impairments.
6. ADA site furnishings:
   1. Accessible tables and benches that accommodate individuals confined to wheelchairs.
   2. Water stations with accessible drinking fountains or bottle filling stations.
   3. Lean bars for momentary resting
7. Accessible pathways and ramps to and from the play area:
   1. Paved pathways and ramps that meet accessibility standards to provide easy access to and from the play area for individuals with mobility devices to support program elements such as pavilions, parking lot, and tables/benches.