CLIENT: City of Toledo Ohio Parks and Youth Services Department

LOCATION: Ottawa Park, 2205 Kenwood Blvd. Toledo, OH 43606

PRODUCTS: Playground structure with inclusive features, custom installations, surfacing

Like many cities across the United States, Toledo Ohio is utilizing American Recovery Plan funding to fuel city park improvements. Tennis and pickleball courts are being constructed, basketball courts are being refurbished, and of course numerous playgrounds are being replaced. A signature playground replacement at Ottawa Park in Toledo included an inclusive playground by GameTime Playgrounds and DWA Recreation. With over 250,000 visitors annually, Ottawa Park is the largest and most visited park in the City's park system. Slightly over $1 million dollars of ARPA funding was dedicated to construct this regional scale inclusive playground.

Putting Inclusive Play in Focus

This inclusive playground puts a focus on parallel play, which allows adults and children with disabilities to play with their able-bodied friends. No one is left out! Everyone of all ages and abilities can play to the greatest extent possible.

Creating a Uniquely Toledo Experience

In order to reflect the unique attributes that make Toledo special, a custom replica of the city’s high-level suspension bridge and a nearly full-sized, free-standing Jeep Wrangler were incorporated into the playground for imaginative play.

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Using Public Input to Set Goals

During the planning process, feedback was collected from the general public as well as the Toledo Area Ability Center and Lucas County Commission on Disabilities. This feedback was incorporated into the final design stages to ensure the goals of maximum inclusivity were met along with the goal of becoming a PlayCore National Demonstration site. A new accessible flush restroom, also partially funded by ARPA, and a 1.5-mile barrier-free paved walking trail are also being construction near the new playground.

Earning Attention for a Successful Project

“Gametime and DWA Recreation were highly engaged partners throughout the planning and installation of our inclusive playground, said Joe Fausnaugh, Director Department of Parks and Youth Services. "Their willingness to provide guidance and support to our installation contractor was a major factor driving the high quality of the final product that we were able to offer to our park visitors.”

To get a sense for the excitement this project provided the community, take a look at this news article from The Toledo Blade or watch this video from Around T-Town.

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Playground Products at Ottawa Park Toledo Ohio

The PowerScape Roller Slide is a fun, inclusive play activity for children of all abilities. It provides distinctive developmental and play benefits such as enhanced balance and coordination.

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The SkyRun Zip Track offers a fun and exciting motion play activity that feels like flying through the air.

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The Inclusive Whirl provides ease of access for people of all abilities with its ground-level, zero-entry design.

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More products seen at Ottawa Park in Toledo Ohio

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Kathy Kolanko is the vice president of sales for DWA Recreation and serves clients in the northwest and southwest regions of Ohio. She earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and is a former teacher. She began her sales career at DWA in 2006 and could not be happier to help you with your park and recreation needs. Contact Kathy

Project Spotlight: Ottawa Park in Toledo Ohio