First All-Inclusive Playground Opens at Avery Park

December 10, 2024 - People of all ability levels are invited to explore the new, all-inclusive playground that opened this month at Avery Park in Corvallis. The $1 million playground project was the result of a year-long community engagement process to assess community needs and desires, followed by a six-month construction process. The playground — complete with accessible swings, sensory play equipment, and special surfacing for people using mobility devices — is the first dedicated play area in Corvallis to be designed from the ground up to serve people of all ability levels.

The City of Corvallis Parks & Recreation Department led the makeover effort that upgraded the decades-old main playground area in Avery Park. Funding came from a combination of sources, including $300,000 from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and a $532,000 grant from the Oregon Parks & Recreation Department.

The new playground layout leans into the concept of inclusive play, says Parks & Recreation Director Meredith Petit.

“Inclusive Play is all about integrated play spaces so that kids, adults, and caregivers can play together,” Petit said. “It’s not about just meeting the bare minimum by providing a few accessible elements in one section of the playground.”

Visitors to the playground will notice colorful, nature-inspired design elements that complement the site’s location in Avery Park (the oldest park in Corvallis, located along the Marys River). Ramp access and a specially designed surface grants easier access for kids or caretakers who use mobility devices. A sensory-focused play space encourages visitors of all ages to engage in rambunctious play, while also providing quiet areas to spend time alone or socialize in small groups.

The project also features site improvements that will serve the broader park patron community. A new restroom building with two individual, all-gender toilet rooms, drinking fountain and water bottle filler has been installed adjacent to the inclusive play area. Also included is a new picnic shelter with four wheelchair-compatible picnic tables and ample circulation area.

Perimeter fencing adjacent to the parking lot and driveway adds additional safety measures to minimize any potential conflict between the playground and moving vehicles. The popular kid-focused musical equipment, which was installed several years ago, has been reused in the new playground. Integrated shade umbrellas provide shelter over the play structure.