MENASHA, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – A new inclusive playground at Jefferson Park, designed with Menasha’s motto in mind, is officially open to visitors.
Community members gathered Thursday for a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the grand opening of Lighthouse Playground.
Officials say the 15,000-square foot playground is one of the largest in the area and offers space for more than 200 kids. Features include:
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Unique area dedicated for children aged 6 months to 23 months
Intergenerational adult/child swings
Accessible zip line, glider rock n’ ship, swings and surfacing
Wheelchair accessible ramp into the main play structure
Musical instruments
Spinning net climber
Multiple slides and roller slides
14-foot climbing tower
Integrated landscaping, shade structures and seating areas
Lighthouse Playground also incorporated aspects of Menasha’s motto (“Your Place on the Water”) such as a lighthouse tower and water-themed play elements like pelicans, turtles, frogs and cattails.
Megan Sackett, Menasha’s parks and recreation director, said these updates were much needed.
“The aging playground was over 20 years old, so it definitely needed to be replaced. We needed something that fit the capacity of the people that come and visit, the volume of people. We’re looking to have a regional draw here in the city of Menasha and highlight some of the elements of the environment around us as well.”
Inclusivity and accessibility were major focal points in the design of the playground, Sackett said.
Inclusive meaning that all ages and all abilities can come and enjoy this. They can navigate through the space, whether it be using the ramps that actually get up into the play structure, or on the rubber surfacing or poured-in-place surfacing that makes it easy to maneuver, so that was a very big component of putting this in.
Additionally, the main pavilion east of the playground has been fully renovated with new tables, an upgraded kitchen, skylights, a fireplace and a family restroom facility.
Jefferson Park is located at 915 Third Street, with easy bike access from the Friendship Trail.
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