Numerous city officials broke ground Tuesday on Lincoln’s first inclusive playground at Mahoney Park, near N. 70th and Fremont Streets.
Construction of the nearly 34,000 square-foot inclusive playground will continue through the fall and is scheduled for completion in mid-2025. The fenced area will include a pathway loop to access different play zones, open green space, and sensory gardens. The design includes a centralized shade shelter, drinking fountain, interactive water table, and new play equipment to provide accessible and inclusive play experiences such as swinging, sliding, rocking, climbing, balancing, imaginative play, and fitness.
“Today’s groundbreaking highlights the City of Lincoln’s commitment to listening to the needs of our residents and to forging innovative community partnerships that meet those needs,” said Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird.
Rendering of Lincoln’s first inclusive playground at Mahoney Park. (Courtesy: City of Lincoln)
Parks and Recreation Director Maggie Stuckey-Ross thanked the Outdoor Inclusive Play Working Committee and Parks Department staff for their teamwork to implement the goals of the City’s Outdoor Inclusive Play Strategic Plan. The Mahoney Park project represents the first step in the plan to increase inclusive play opportunities across the city, she said.
“Their passion and aspirations for what Lincoln can do and should do deeply influenced our department. It is an honor to stand side by side with you as we reach this milestone,” Stuckey-Ross said.
Inclusive playground design includes physical accommodations that provide access and specialized equipment to meet certain needs, as well as provide opportunities for everyone to explore and play with children and adults who may have different levels of ability.
In August, the City installed a portion of the playground equipment formerly located in Mahoney Park in the newly opened Tranquility Park, 45th Street and Colfax Circle. The park is scheduled for completion this fall.
The Mahoney park groundbreaking location for Lincoln’s first inclusive playground. (Courtesy: City of Lincoln)
Funding for the $1,074,450 Mahoney Park project includes a $399,725 grant from the Land and Water Conservation Fund through the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, $399,725 from the City of Lincoln and $275,000 from the Lincoln Parks Foundation.
For more information about the Mahoney playground, visit lincoln.ne.gov/MahoneyPlayground.