Boundless Playground Opened by County Commissioners Washo & O'Brien Print
Written by Bill Risse   
Saturday, 31 October 2009 00:00

Ribbon Cutting for Boundless Playground

County Parks Director Bill Davis, shown in center kneeling with his two children, cuts the ribbon on new playground. County Commissioner Mike Washo and CoreyO'Brien and State Rep Jim Wansacz are also in the front row.

In Early 2009  Lackawanna County Commissioners Michael J. Washo, Corey D. O’Brien and A.J. Munchak announced that the Lackawanna County Department of Parks and Recreation would build inclusive playground this fall at the Abington Community Park in South Abington Township. On Halloween Day 2009 they fulfilled their promise.

“Inclusive playgrounds will give every child the opportunity to gain the proven intellectual, physical and social development benefits of unstructured play,” Commissioners O’Brien and Washo said. “We believe that barriers facing children with disabilities must be eliminated. Boundless Playgrounds will help children develop respect and acceptance of all individuals despite any perceived disability.”  

The Commissioners tapped Boundless Playgrounds Inc., a Connecticut-based, non-profit organization, which has built more than 140 Boundless Playgrounds in 28 states and Canada, to develop the inclusive playgrounds. On inclusive playgrounds, children with and without disabilities can actively play and interact together. Boundless playgrounds also promote intergenerational play. Parents, grandparents and caregivers with disabilities or limited mobility can freely navigate the play area to interact with their children.

Boundless Playground Features: 

  • Every child can reach the highest play deck.
  • Play structures are configured to support children’s development.
  • Pathways and surfacing are universally accessible.
  • Cozy spots exist where everyone can gather.
  • Equipment like swings and bouncers have back support.
  • Elevated sand tables and activity panels allow children of all abilities to play together.
  • Sensory-rich activities let the imagination soar. 
Last Updated ( Friday, 09 April 2010 14:20 )