“All of Richardson’s playgrounds meet the minimum standards of the Americans with Disabilities Act for accessibility, but ‘accessible’ is not always equivalent to ‘inclusive,’” said Richardson Director of Parks and Recreation Lori Smeby. “An accessible playground allows individuals with disabilities to use parts of the park, but we are taking it a step further and creating an inclusive playground that will ensure all children, and the adults that may come with them, regardless of ability, can play together.” The first of its kind in Richardson, this playground will be a free, outdoor, safe, and inclusive play environment. It will encompass sensory-rich structures designed to engage children of all ages and create a unique and meaningful community environment. Inclusive playgrounds have become a core service provided by many cities. The concept fits a stated goal of Richardson to be an inclusive city. North Texas Giving Day is the Communities Foundation of Texas' annual 18-hour online giving extravaganza for North Texas nonprofits. It has generated more than $156 million for more than 2,500 local nonprofits. In 2016, $37 million was raised through more than 142,000 gifts benefiting 2,518 nonprofits. |
“poured-in-place” surfaces that provide the best access for people with physical challenges.
