Our post about the new playground at Legion Park got a lot of comments on Facebook. Several of our readers asked if the new playground will be handicap accessible.
In response, Director of Parks and Recreation, Amanda Rogers, told Owensboro Living that the City worked to create a playground that is accessible and inclusive for all.
“We started with ensuring that access to the playground is accessible and that the playground surfacing chosen improves access beyond the ADA approved engineered wood fiber (like the previous surfacing at the playground had). As such, we are using a poured-in-place surfacing, similar to the surface at Smothers Park,” Rogers said.
Other accommodations include:
- Accessible ramps to provide access to many elevated areas and play features.
- A transfer platform and a transfer system with a barrier on both the 2-5 yr old equipment area and the 5 -12 equipment area.
- A fully accessible, forward facing design Merry Go All that can accommodate several children at one time. It can be pushed from the sides or children can work together to turn themselves using a center spin wheel that remains stationary.
- An adaptive Zero Gravity swing with a molded seat that provides additional support from a standard belt swing.
- And many accessible, interactive panels that provide for manipulative, auditory, and/or visual play.
“Our hope was to increase accessibility and provide the most varied, interactive and enjoyable experience for all of our children. I am excited about the new equipment and amenities this playground will offer our citizens!” – Amanda Rogers, Director of Parks and Recreation
