We are excited to share the latest updates on the improvements being made to the playscapes in our community. From the outset, our goal was not just to meet the minimum requirements for accessibility, but to ensure that our playgrounds are truly inclusive and welcoming for all residents, regardless of ability. While ADA compliance is a legal standard, we believe it is simply the right thing to do—whether required or not.

To ensure our playscapes are accessible, we worked closely with our vendor to confirm that all new installations are ADA accessible and certified. The government’s ADA standards for playgrounds focus on two main areas:

1. The ratio of accessible play events to total events, accessible entrances, and similar features.
2. Safety surfacing and the designated use zone around the equipment.

For our playgrounds, we selected recycled rubber mulch as the safety surfacing. This material is ASTM certified and fully meets ADA requirements for accessibility and safety. Additionally, we requested the installation of a ramp into the playscape—an upgrade that goes beyond what is typically included in standard playground builds.

ADA accessibility covers a wide range of components, from parking lots and sidewalks to the playground equipment itself. Specifically, the Decker playground is now fully compliant with both national ASTM and ADA standards. The design includes a universal access point, allowing children of all abilities to enjoy different levels and features of the playscape. ADA standards also dictate that no stairs can be higher than 8 inches, and there are requirements for the height of platforms to ensure safe and easy access.

A chart included in the rendering from our contract (see below) details the presence of 8 accessible play components, with 3 located at ground level. This playscape has been officially certified as ADA accessible. We are also exploring the addition of swings with enhanced mobility support options to further expand inclusive play opportunities.

Decker Park Status Update:
We’re excited to announce that the new play structure and safety surfacing at Decker Park are now in place! Among the new features, kids can look forward to a pedestal climber and rock wall, offering fun and challenging options for play. View the photos at the top of the page for your reference.

We are still waiting for the spinner and park benches to be delivered. The numerous concrete footings and the concrete ramp need a little time to cure. The crew will be returning to the site tomorrow in the early afternoon to remove the fencing. At that time, the playground will be ready and safe for use. The old playground and borders have been removed, and the pea gravel will be removed next week. They will also be removing pea gravel from McNaughton Park at that time.

Upcoming: McNaughton Park Improvements
Work at McNaughton Park will begin on Monday, June 9, 2025. This playground will feature several exciting new elements, including a ring climber, a storefront zone with stools, and a Three Bay Swing Set (single post design) with two strap seats, two infant seats, and one ADA seat with straps.

Looking Ahead: Haupt Headliner Playground
In addition to these improvements, we are thrilled to announce that we are working on a real showstopper of a playground at Haupt. This new playscape will be a flagship feature for our community, designed to provide an exceptional and inclusive play experience for all children.
We are proud to provide spaces where all children can play, explore, and connect. Thank you for your support as we continue to make Plum Creek a more inclusive community for everyone.