Spokane's first universal playground set to be dedicated Tuesday May 25 in Mission Park

Spokane, WA– A six year effort to bring a children's universal playground to Spokane is complete.  The playground, a project of the Spokane Regional Health District, was developed to provide increased physical activity opportunities to children with disabilities. The public is invited to attend a dedication ceremony May 25 at Mission Park.

Parents of children with disabilities helped design the playground. It includes traditional playground elements like slides and swings as well as a climbing wall and a music area with drums and bells. The playground's surface is flat and made of recycled rubber tiles to accommodate children in wheelchairs or walkers. All equipment is accessible by ramp.

The playground cost more than $80,000. Fundraising and construction were coordinated by the Rotaract Club of Spokane. Donations and volunteers from Safeco, Hollister Stier, Spokane area Rotary clubs, Spokane Regional Health District, Logan Neighborhood Council, Spokane Parks and Recreation Department, Spokane Parks Foundation, Spokane International Airport Fire Department, AmericanWest Bank, A.M. Landscapers, Garco Construction, Mountain Gear, Lile North American, Automated Accounts and individuals made the project possible.

Spokane Parks and Recreation will own and maintain the playground.

Dedication details:

• Date: Tuesday May 25, 2010
• Time: 3:00pm - Refreshments, 3:30pm - Dedication
• Location: Southwest end of Mission Park, 1210 E. Mission Ave., Spokane