At the July 14, 2022, Board of Commissioners meeting, the Board approved awarding the proposal for consulting services for planning and design services needed for the construction of an inclusive park and playground to Engineering & Land Planning Associates, Inc.

An inclusive playground incorporates physical, cognitive, social, sensory, and communicative elements to enhance the play of children who have different abilities and removes the barriers that limit their experiences. Physical elements offer opportunities from engaging hands and fingers for fine motor skills to using the entire body for agility and balance. These elements are also designed to enhance coordination and improve endurance.

Cognitive elements present problem-solving that requires strategy to participate in successful play and benefits early childhood cognitive development. Social and communicative elements present scenarios for children to interact, exchange ideas and build relationships. The play environment allows verbal and non-verbal children to share their imaginations and creativity through cooperative play. Sensory elements include the sights, sounds, and feel of the playground. These elements are the connections between the children and the play equipment, and they engage and strengthen visual, auditory, and tactile senses.

The vision for this much needed project has been initiated by and advocated for a number of parents in Abington Township. Commissioner Mike Thompson and Township Administration has been working with the families to create what will be the first park of its kind for our community. The project kicked off in July 2022 and was awarded to MECO Constructors, Inc. at the February 8, 2024 Board of Commissioner meeting. Construction is expected to start in the summer of 2024 with completion in the Spring of 2025. 

Updates and information can be found below.