Athens Reporter

Families are encouraged to attend the dedication of the new Sandy Creek Park playground on July 3. On this day, admission will be free for all children aged 12 and younger.

The new playground, located near the park’s beach, is designed to be inclusive for children of all ages and abilities. Features include a turf carpet mat throughout, a misting station at the entrance, and a perimeter fence with benches for guardians.

Several highlights of the playground include:

- Alex’s Lemonade Stand play feature represents the Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF), which has donated over $250 million to pediatric cancer research across the U.S. and Canada. It is named in honor of Alexandra Scott, who raised over $1 million for pediatric cancer research within her lifetime.

- A roller slide that does not create static that can damage cochlear implants.

- Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) boards for non-verbal communication.

- Ramps parallel to balance beams for parallel play throughout the playground.

- A hill with an embedded slide allowing optional play without transferring from a mobility device.

- A ground-level spinner adjacent to swings to allow play without requiring a transfer from a mobility device.

- Ample shade over play structures and benches/seating, including over 15 individual shades.

- Signage in Braille and communication boards featuring American Sign Language (ASL).

- A “quiet corner” sensory space within the playground perimeter fence for winding down away from other activities.

- A rocking boat feature designed to accommodate people who utilize a mobility device.

This project is part of SPLOST 2011 Project 14 Sandy Creek Park Renovation for Leisure Services. The project’s User Group collaborated closely with citizens and SPLOST staff to bring it to fruition.

For more information, please call 706-613-3631.