Project Brings First Inclusive Playground to Moreno Valley

MORENO VALLEY>> The City of Moreno Valley is hosting a groundbreaking ceremony for installation of new inclusive playground equipment at Shadow Mountain Park, 23239 Presidio Hills. The event will take place on Thursday, Oct. 13, 2016 at 10 a.m. The new playground equipment will feature Moreno Valley's first inclusive equipment design, which will serve the physical, social, sensory, cognitive, and emotional needs of children of all abilities. Inclusive playgrounds inspire social evolution through the development of understanding, acceptance, and the building of common ground between children of all abilities. Tony Hetherman, Parks Projects Coordinator for Parks & Community Services said this is the first of its kind for Moreno Valley. Hethernan said the play equipment is attached with a series of ramps that lead to decks and play stations. The surface area in the playground is engineered wood fiber, an organic material that is an accepted surface for ADA. In addition to the play stations, there is also a swing set that provides use for children 2-5 years old, 5-12 years old and disabled children. Additionally, a separate small play structure has been added for toddler use. Other amenities include a walkway around the playground and benches for parents to rest and watch their children. Prior to the contractor doing any demolition, the City Council will break ground with their shovels. The project is expected to be completed in spring of 2017.