COLUMBUS, Ohio — Just in time for spring, Metro Parks is preparing to open a new inclusive playground Blendon Woods Metro Park next month.
The playground will offer a variety of play equipment for children and families, including those who have special needs accommodations or use mobility devices.
Blendon Woods' playground is fully fenced in and contains ramps and communication boards throughout the equipment for easy access.
“Metro Parks is dedicated to providing places to play for people of all ages and abilities, and we hope this playground will be a place for growth and development, as well as tons of fun," said Tim Moloney, executive director of Metro Park. "This is a space where nature and play unite, inviting everyone to connect, explore and grow together.”
There will also be a sensory area and musical instruments, such as musical steps. Families can also make use of picnic tables and shade structures. The restroom facilities at the playground have been equipped with a universal changing table and hoist.
Families and special needs groups are also able to reserve the space from Tuesday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The playground will be open to the public outside these reservations. Metro Parks said it will also host various events on Saturdays for those with disabilities.
The playground will officially open to the public on April 10.
The project was developed alongside families, caregivers and advocates to ensure it meets the needs of community members across the area. In total, it cost $1.5 million to create the playground, renovate the restroom facilities and install the structures. The Franklin County Board of Developmental Disabilities awarded a $20,000 grant to the project and assisted with restroom renovations.