Plymouth residents of all ages and abilities now have a playground to enjoy. City officials cut the ribbon for Freedom Park at Packard Woods last evening. Mayor Mark Senter says it’s a great addition to the city.
“It’s all inclusive. Any child can come and play, whether they’re in a wheelchair or if they are mentally handicapped. They can still have a blast here, along with their friends.”
Senter notes the old playground equipment at Packard Woods was destroyed by a tornado in July of 2014. He says the new equipment will continue to draw more youngsters to the park. It’s been a popular attraction for the past few months. Weather and landscaping delays pushed back the previously scheduled ribbon cutting.
Freedom Park was the brainchild of Plymouth businessman Tony Gamble, who has a special needs son.
“We have a beautiful park system in Plymouth – never have complained about it, never have an issue with anything in it, never said a bad thing about it. But my son was not able to play on the play equipment that we have. So that was my inspiration to get started.
Gamble says the main play structure was the top priority. It features ramps instead of steps so children with limited mobility can get from one platform to the next. There are also more challenging activities that some children with disabilities may not be able to engage in. Gamble’s vision is for all youngsters to play together side by side in an inclusive area.
Fundraising efforts, including the sale of commemorative brick pavers, are continuing to fund the remaining two phases of the project. Visit http://www.freedomparkin.com/index.html for more information.
