Indlusive Playground Auburn — City of Auburn inclusive playground rendering. Photo via Ann Bergman

Exciting things are underway at Auburn’s Town Creek Park. We talked to Auburn Parks and Recreation to get the scoop on a brand-new inclusive playground coming to the community. Read on for all you need to know.

Local families recognize a need

Around seven years ago, local families brought the idea of an inclusive playground to the city’s attention. Since then, city officials have been working hard to bring the project to life.

Located at the Wrights Mill Road and Camellia Drive intersection, this ADA-accessible playground gives a wide range of children, as well as adults, the chance to play together.

“It was really family-driven. We had people who were interested in it and brought it to our attention as a need in the city. We interviewed families and got feedback on what they might want to see included and tried to put as many elements into the playground as we could.”
—Elizabeth Kaufman, Therapeutic Programs Director Auburn Parks and Recreation

What will the playground feature?

Auburn Inclusive Playground — Construction site of the new playground. Photo via Maggie Dazzio for The Bama Buzz

No matter what your age or ability level is, you’re sure to find something in the playground you can utilize and enjoy. From a rock wall to a zip line, the possibilities are vast.

“We really designed this to be truly inclusive. I would say the most exciting elements would be the sensory maze, rocking climbing wall and also the zip line. We really tried to make sure there weren’t components in the playground that only certain people could use.”
—Elizabeth Kaufman, Therapeutic Programs Director Auburn Parks and Recreation

More features include sensory and motor skills elements. Even the color schemes came into consideration for those with visual impairments.

“I love that there is something for just about every age group there. I think the coolest thing is that it’s for adults and children, with or without disabilities.”
—Ann Bergman, Public Relations Specialist Auburn Parks and Recreation

Advocacy in Auburn

The population of therapeutic families in Auburn is rapidly increasing due to well-known programs within the city. This playground is sure to be a popular destination for not only Auburn residents, but also state-wide. One of the most important parts of this new development is the awareness it’s bringing to the community.

“My favorite part of the playground has definitely been that advocacy component. Being able to advocate for those people who maybe can’t always advocate for themselves.”
—Elizabeth Kaufman, Therapeutic Programs Director Auburn Parks and Recreation

Be on the lookout for this amazing development in early 2022! This is just one of the many reasons the Auburn community is so special.