JILL SNYDER
Visitor Engagement Manager
Metro Parks is thrilled to announce the upcoming dedication of a fabulously innovative inclusive playground designed to provide an accessible, welcoming and fun experience for individuals of all abilities. This innovative playground, set to open at Blendon Woods Metro Park on April 10 at 10am, will offer a variety of play equipment for children and families, including those who use mobility devices or need other special accommodations.
Unlike many traditional playgrounds, with limited wheelchair-accessible features, this new space at Blendon Woods offers a wide range of equipment that caters to all ages and abilities. The fully fenced playground ensures safety, making it easier for parents of children who might wander to relax and enjoy the environment. Communication boards throughout the playground help children express their needs, and ramps allow easy access to the play structures, so everyone can join in on the fun.
In addition to traditional playground elements, the space includes a sensory area and numerous musical instruments, such as musical steps, where children can interact and make music while walking along. Metro Parks has also incorporated accessible picnic tables and shade structures so families can enjoy longer visits while staying comfortable. The restroom facilities feature a universal changing table and hoist, making it easier for caregivers to provide necessary support.
The inclusive playground will be open to the public outside of reserved hours. Families and special needs groups can reserve the space from Tuesday to Friday, 8am to 4pm. Metro Parks also plans to host various events on Saturdays for participants with disabilities.
Tim Moloney, Executive Director of Metro Parks, shared his excitement for the new addition: “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! This is a space where nature and play unite, inviting everyone to connect, explore and grow together.”
The inclusive playground was developed in close collaboration with families, caregivers and advocates to ensure it meets the diverse needs of the community. Jessica Bennett of Jeremiah’s Corner, who spoke at the Metro Parks Board of Commissioners meeting in February 2024, played a key role in advocating for this project. “I was incredibly fortunate that Metro Parks listened to my voice and saw the importance of building this inclusive playground. This playground isn’t just a space to play—it’s a symbol of hope. Hope for my family, hope for the families I serve through my company, and hope for the entire community. Thank you, Metro Parks!” she said.
In reflecting on the significance of the new playground, one parent shared, “Play doesn’t have an age limit nor is it one size fits all. Everyone, regardless of ability, deserves the chance to play. When parks are truly accessible, children like my son don’t just have a space to play; they feel included, valued, and part of the community.”
The project was also met with overwhelming support from the community. This past fall groups from Bridgeway Academy, Adult Day Services, Franklin County Board of Developmental Disabilities, Columbus City Schools, and families with children with intellectual developmental disabilities were invited to try out the playground and provide guidance for improvement. Feedback from those who participated this past fall speaks to the positive impact the playground will have. Some of the heartfelt responses include:
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- “There are no words for how amazing this space is for families with children of special needs. Loved it for all.”
- “This is an incredibly well thought out playground. I loved that even benches had activities on them. It was amazing.”
- “Amazing space, and everyone loved it! Thanks.”
- “Amazing! Thank you for creating this inclusive play area.”
- “The park was great ❤️.”
- “Impressed! It was a wow factor for sure.”
- “It was truly the most beautiful playground I have seen. My favorite components were the large space, music components, opportunities for interaction with children who don’t use their voice to communicate, the zipline, and the double entry (in the case of children who elope).”
- “Play looks different for everyone, and Metro Parks did a great job capturing this.”
This project, which cost $1.5 million, includes the creation of the playground, renovations to the restroom facilities, and the installation of the play structures. Special thanks to a $20,000 grant from the Franklin County Board of Developmental Disabilities, which assisted with restroom renovations. Metro Parks is excited to open the new space to the public and looks forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on families and individuals across the region.
Join us at Blendon Woods Metro Park on April 10 at 10am for the dedication ceremony and the chance to experience the new playground. For more information, visit www.metroparks.net.
MORE PHOTOS OF THE INTERACTIVE PLAYGROUND
This is great! Makes me want to be a kid again 🙂