In a city where accessibility has long been a challenge, the City of Lincoln is taking a significant step forward in creating a truly inclusive playground at Mahoney Park. This transformative project aims to shatter barriers and ensure that children of all abilities can come together, play, and thrive in a welcoming, barrier-free environment.

Redefining the Playground Experience for All

Embracing Diversity, Fostering Inclusion

For too long, playgrounds have been designed with a one-size-fits-all approach, leaving many children with disabilities or special needs feeling excluded. The City of Lincoln's vision for the new Mahoney Park playground is to change that narrative. By creating a space that caters to the diverse needs and abilities of all children, the city is paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable play experience.The new playground will be five times larger than the previous one, spanning a vast 34,000 square-foot fenced area. This expansive space will feature a carefully designed pathway loop, allowing children to navigate the different play zones with ease. From interactive water features to open green spaces, the playground will offer a multitude of engaging and accessible activities, catering to the unique needs and preferences of every child who visits.

Collaborative Efforts, Collective Impact

The Mahoney Park playground project is a testament to the power of community collaboration. Funded through a diverse array of sources, including a significant grant from the Land and Water Conservation Fund, city contributions, and donations from the Lincoln Parks Foundation and local families, this initiative has garnered widespread support.Brent Toalson, a parent whose son Alex has been a driving force behind the push for more accessible play spaces, eloquently captures the essence of this project. "We don't want playgrounds to be one of the barriers that exist in our society for people with disabilities," he says. "We want them to be barrier-free, where kids can come in regardless of who they are and what their hopes and dreams are and what their abilities are, and just have a great place to play and to play with other kids."

Reimagining the Playground Paradigm

The City of Lincoln's approach to the Mahoney Park playground goes beyond simply removing barriers or adding separate special components. Maggie Stuckey-Ross, the director of Lincoln Parks & Recreation, emphasizes the city's commitment to "reimagining what a playground should look like."This ambitious undertaking is just the beginning, as the city sets its sights on expanding inclusive play opportunities across the community. "Mahoney is just step one, folks, there's so much more that we can do together," Stuckey-Ross declares. "We're excited. We're motivated. Let's get this project started."The transformation of Mahoney Park into an inclusive, barrier-free playground represents a significant milestone in Lincoln's journey towards a more equitable and accessible future. By prioritizing the needs of all children and fostering a sense of belonging, the city is paving the way for a playground experience that truly celebrates diversity and empowers every child to thrive.