A Place By The Same Name
James City County embraces all-inclusive playground
For some families, playgrounds have become inaccessible due to physical limitations. Yet, playgrounds are places where all children should be able to come together--to play, swing and imagine, and to learn life’s lessons of challenge, risk and cooperation.
My Place is James City County, Virginia’s newest playground, specially designed to welcome all individuals and families regardless of ability. It includes all the features of a traditional playground--swings, a merry-go-round and climbing equipment--but in a barrier-free environment.
My Place was a community project of the Leadership Historic Triangle Class of 2009. The leadership classes are held biennially, and are sponsored by the local chamber and tourism alliance to encourage, develop and support future community leaders. The class initiated the venture to research, fund and build an accessible playground at the existing James City/Williamsburg Community Center. The goal was a 6,000-square-foot playground with barrier-free equipment, fencing and sidewalks to be located at an existing county park site where visitor traffic was already established.
My Place is James City County, Virginia’s newest playground, specially designed to welcome all individuals and families regardless of ability. It includes all the features of a traditional playground--swings, a merry-go-round and climbing equipment--but in a barrier-free environment.
My Place was a community project of the Leadership Historic Triangle Class of 2009. The leadership classes are held biennially, and are sponsored by the local chamber and tourism alliance to encourage, develop and support future community leaders. The class initiated the venture to research, fund and build an accessible playground at the existing James City/Williamsburg Community Center. The goal was a 6,000-square-foot playground with barrier-free equipment, fencing and sidewalks to be located at an existing county park site where visitor traffic was already established.
The class started work on the project more than a year ago. With approval in February 2009, the playground took shape through conceptual planning and drawings. Since it was a privately funded project, fundraising efforts began with support from corporate sponsors, community donations and a commemorative brick paver campaign. Ground was broken for the $170,000 facility in October 2009. The class, along with a host of citizens, families and local volunteer contractors, constructed the playground in two months. Grand opening ceremonies were held in December 2009. Upon completion, it was donated to the county for management and maintenance.
For more information, visit www.jccegov.com.