HomeMy WebLinkAbout2013-02-11- PACKET 08.A.(m Cottage
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To: Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission
From: Zac Dockter, Parks and Recreation Director
Date: January 29, 2013
Subject: Inclusive Playground
Background
At its December meeting, the Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Commission recommended a
work plan to the City Council that pursues the creation of an inclusive playground in the community.
That work plan is as follows:
• Form Specialized Task Force
• Develop Project Concept
• Identify Funding Sources
• Promote Project
• Build Play System
• Study Impacts
The City Council gave support to the project and Commission work plan at its January 2, 2013 meeting.
As such, staff has implemented the first phase of the work plan by submitting a press release in an
effort to form a specialized task force for the project. That press release is attached for your review.
Recommendation
No action requested at this time.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Jan. 28 2013
City of Cottage Grove
For More Information Please Contact:
Molly Pietruszewski, Recreation Supervisor, mpietruszewski @cottage- grove.org, 651 - 458 -3404
City Seeks Applicants for Inclusive Playground Task Force
The City of Cottage Grove is seeking applicants for a citizen task force that will look into the possibility of
creating an inclusive playground in the city. The task force will develop the project concept, identify
funding sources, and promote the project. The group will meet one to two times per month beginning
in March.
Healthcare professionals, parents of children living with challenges, child advocates, educators,
researchers and community supporters are encouraged to apply. Interested applicants should contact
Molly Pietruszewski at 651 - 458 -3404 or mpietruszewski @cottage- grove.org by March 2.
"We're proud of our existing parks and playgrounds and want everyone to enjoy them," said Mayor
Myron Bailey. "The addition of an inclusive playground would let all kids join in the fun, no matter what
their ability, instead of sitting on the sidelines watching. "
"Kids are very flexible thinkers. This type of playground environment would provide a terrific chance for
them to recognize that it doesn't matter if someone has different abilities— perhaps even significantly
different— everyone can still play together," said Councilmember Justin Olsen. "It's a wonderful thing
for our community to move forward on and I applaud our Parks and Recreation staff for their work on
the ideal"
An inclusive playground is one built for everyone to use and play on together, including those with
physical, social, emotional, sensory or cognitive challenges. It could include modified swings, sensory
panel plays, discovery walls, and domes for quiet play. Ramps instead of steps and a solid ground
surface would make it accessible for wheelchairs.
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