The Oregon Park District’s newest playground was officially unveiled Wednesday night, July 22, with an extra special summer treat – free ice cream.
Park district officials held the grand opening and ribbon cutting for the new playground at Lions Park, 809 Webster St., following weeks of anticipation and a couple of unexpected delays.
When the caution tape was removed from the brightly colored playground, a wave of kids hit the equipment running, climbing, sliding and swinging on a perfect summer evening with temperatures in the 70s.
Park officials were excited to officially open the brand-new Lions Park Playground and thanked community members for their patience after the opening of the playground was pushed back when shipment of two pieces of playground equipment was delayed.
The new playground includes turf surfacing and a sensory-inclusive design with special attractions in addition to regular playground staples.
“When we began planning this project our goal was simple. To create a space where kids could play and explore together,” said Oregon Park District Executive Director Erin Folk. “Rather than designing the space for one age group, we intentionally created play spaces that provide age-appropriate challenges and opportunities for all.
“Additionally, we wanted this to be a space where every child felt welcome. Throughout the design process we considered sensory experiences and accessibility so children of varying abilities can enjoy play alongside their peers.”
Wednesday’s special treat was a free ice cream bar where volunteers scooped ice cream into packages of cookies for “walking sundaes.” Recipients then added their own special sprinkles or other sweet toppings at a nearby table.
Adding a special musical twist was K-Rae Knowles of Safe in Sound, a musical therapist who encouraged kids to sing and play percussion instruments along with her as she sang and played her guitar.
“While this is a neighborhood park, we planned for it to be used by the community,” Folk said.
The Oregon Park District Board of Commissioners approved replacing the playground at the park in April for $215,788. The old playground equipment was removed by and donated to Kids Around the World in May.
The park was originally donated to the city of Oregon and purchased by the park district in 1985. It also includes a lighted baseball diamond, shelter, and picnic tables.
Lions Park is one of 11 parks within the Oregon Park District, which is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year.
Other park district amenities include a trail-bike path system that connects some of the parks and the Nash Recreation Center, 304 S. Fifth St., that features a fitness center, 4,800-square-foot indoor pool, two gymnasiums, multi-purpose rooms, racquetball court, and locker rooms.
‘ The preceding article may include information circulated by third parties ’
‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source www.shawlocal.com ’
