In the last several years, we’ve seen a wave of all-inclusive playgrounds springing up in the Bay Area. I love it! The next one is planned for John D. Morgan Park in Campbell. Santa Clara County Supervisor Ken Yeager’s latest newsletter announced the project:
The County’s commitment to increasing the health and wellness of our residents is stronger than ever, including providing them with opportunities to go outdoors and get active. For instance, we recently opened new trails in our parks. We also installed an outdoor par course on the Civic Center campus in San Jose. Unfortunately, many of our residents, especially our kids with physical limitations or special needs, are not able to enjoy these offerings. That’s why I’m so excited to announce that an all-inclusive playground is coming to Campbell’s John D. Morgan Park.
On August 14, the Board of Supervisors unanimously approved my proposal to provide funding for the approximately one-acre playground. It will provide play areas for residents of all abilities, including those with mobility challenges, autism spectrum disorders, sensory challenges, visual and auditory impairments, cognitive disabilities, developmental disabilities, and medically fragile conditions.
The County is contributing $1 million to the project which the City of Campbell will match. Design work is scheduled to begin this fall, and public workshops will be held so local residents can provide their input. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2020 with the playground’s opening anticipated in 2021.
I deeply appreciate all the work that will go into this project for the children in our community. I’m also really grateful that this trend is considering children with so many different abilities. In an era where politicians seem to be out of touch with real life so much of the time, seeing leaders take the time to pursue projects like this really makes me smile!