City officials gathered Tuesday morning to cut the ribbon on Lincoln’s first fully inclusive playground in Mahoney Park near North 70th and Fremont streets.
The nearly 34,000 square-foot fenced area is five times larger than the previous playground and includes 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.
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.
“This playground reflects Lincoln’s values. It’s a space designed with intention, care, and heart. A space where children of all abilities can laugh, learn, and play together. And it’s a symbol of what we can accomplish when we unite around a shared vision of inclusion and access for all,” said Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird.
Parks and Rec Director Maggie Stuckey-Ross thanked the community members in the Outdoor Inclusive Play Working Committee, Parks Department staff, BIC Construction, the Lincoln Parks Foundation, and the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission for their support and work to complete the playground project.
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- Lincoln Parks and Recreation Department
“This playground is a reflection of what happens when a community dreams big – and a City listens. It’s what happens when a community rallies together for each other,” Stuckey-Ross said.
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.
Northeast City Councilmember James Michael Bowers said the new playground embodies Lincoln’s commitment to provide every child with opportunities to explore, connect, and thrive.
“Kids with disabilities deserve the same opportunities to play and learn alongside their peers in environments designed with accessibility and inclusivity in mind,” Bowers said. “Our community’s investment in this inclusive playground, and in future ones, not only break down physical barriers, they build up a sense of belonging and community for all children.”
For more information about the Mahoney playground, visit lincoln.ne.gov/MahoneyPlayground.