Dedication day set for major new Raleigh playground

The public is invited to the Nov. 5 dedication ceremony for Sassafras All Children's Playground in north Raleigh.

Posted 1:00 a.m. Oct 24, 2016 — Updated 1:00 a.m. Oct 24, 2016

Sarah Lindenfeld Hall

Sassafras All Children's Playground, seven years in the making, will officially open Nov. 5 after a dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The playground, designed for children of all abilities, is at Laurel Hills Park, 3808 Edwards Mill Rd. The playground stretches over 3.5 acres and will be the biggest in Raleigh. But, more importantly, it will serve children of all abilities - including those in wheelchairs or with other mobility issues.

The playground includes traditional play equipment such as swings and slides, along with special features that will make this place fun for all kids.

Some highlights:

A basketball hoop that allows kids to adjust the height.
Two zip line-like experiences that are much longer than the traditional 10 to 12-foot experience at a typical playground. One zip line features a seat anybody can sit in. The second has a harness-like seat for children who might lack upper body strength.
A variety of swings - from communal swings to belt and bucket swings to swings with full support for kids who need it.
Standalone pieces that help kids build their strength, including roller tables where kids can lie down and pull themselves back and forth.
A Sway Fun, a wheelchair-accessible teeter totter.
Play panels, seats and other activities under the decking of the main playground.

Funding for the $2.3 million playground comes from park bonds, private donations, city labor and in-kind donations, along with lots of volunteer help. (And a big shout out to Dionne Lester, the Raleigh mom who has worked tirelessly since 2009 to make this a reality).

The ceremony is at 10 a.m., Nov. 5. After the dedication, kids can explore the playground, create an art project and sing along with the Sandbox Band. It should be a fantastic day!

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