Project Overview
The City of Fitchburg has placed a priority on updating its park system and making it more inclusive for users of all abilities. McKee Farms Park features popular amenities for visitors to enjoy such as a splash pad, which is one of the City’s most attended structures. Because of its popularity and proximity to Kids’ Crossing playground, this park was a great candidate for the addition of an accessible play area.
raSmith collaborated with City staff and project stakeholders to identify the needs of the community and determine a design that would enable people of all ability levels to interact and play together. This 4,000-square-foot inclusive playground features accessible ramps and swing sets, spaces for children to practice balance, and other play structures. The design meets all ADA requirements for path connections to the northern parking lot, splash pad, and southern multi-use path.
Due to historic flooding, the site was elevated to prevent flooding of the future structure, and stormwater management features were incorporated into the layout. The project was constructed in phases and partially funded with grants and donations. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on July 24, 2022 to celebrate the playground’s completion on the 32nd anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (1990).
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