Wake Forest to open new $1.5M inclusive playground
A new $1.5 million inclusive playground just opened in Wake Forest.
The Holding Park Inclusive Playground, located at 133 W. Owen Ave., was designed for children of all abilities with wheelchair accessible entrances, rides and slides and a mix of sensory-rich play experiences.
The town began work in 2021 on a new playground, seeking community input via virtual meetings the following year.
"We learned during COVID that we did have a need for a park that was more inclusive than the playground we currently had," said Ruben Wall, Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources director for the Town of Wake Forest.
The project was funded through a federal grant as part of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds.
Construction began in June 2023.
Wall said the focus was on building something unique that people can enjoy for many years to come.
"This playground was created to provide a new inclusive play space for the town of Wake Forest and beyond," said Olivia Atkinson, the town's specialized programs and inclusion specialist.
The playground includes double-wide ramps to accommodate children using mobility devices, so they can reach the slides and utilize them as well. The Inclusive Orbit Spinner is a zero entry merry-go-round that is wheelchair accessible as well.
"We also have features included for families who are Spanish speaking so we will have communication boards set up through the playground that have Spanish and English communication prompts."
Sensation is also a major part of the park with multiple sensory experiences including outdoor musical equipment and outdoor interactive games.
"A lot of the design of this playground was about engaging all senses. There is a musical element with a xylophone, drums," Atkinson said.
The play surface itself is a poured rubber, which provides a stable surface for mobility devices to move. The entire playground is also enclosed by fencing.
"We are really excited because it can bring people of all ages and ability to play together," said Monica Lileton, the town's recreation programs manager.
On opening weekend, free parking will be available in several lots on the campus of the Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary and along some side streets near Holding Park. Town leaders have also suggested residents take the Wake Forest Loop, which provides free transportation on Saturday and stops less than a block from the park.
The park will be open from dawn until dusk seven days a week.
In addition to the playground, the five-acre Holding Park site also includes the Wake Forest Community House, Holding Park Aquatic Center, picnic tables, grills and a basketball court.
