FAQs
What is an “inclusive design”?
Inclusive design in playgrounds is about creating a play space where all people, including individuals with physical, sensory, or developmental disabilities, can engage fully with play and equipment — playing together and alongside each other. This means that a variety of skill-sets and play interests are built-in, without the need for separate spaces or adaptations. There are seven principles of inclusive design:
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Equitable use
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Flexibility in use
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Simple and intuitive use
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Perceptible information
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Tolerance for error
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Low physical effort
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Size and space for approach and use
What are the components of this new playground?
We collaborated with expert playground design consultants to ensure the equipment meets the needs of individuals with a wide range of abilities, while also being durable and accessible for all. As such, the playground includes things like roller slides, accessible zip lines, switch-activated sensory panels, merry-go-all, shaded seating for adults and kids alike, climbing structures, story trail panels to promote literacy, musical play, surf boards, and so much more. It will also feature accessible swings that can be accessed by people whether they are wheelchair users, standing, or sitting. The surface is also designed to be smooth and shock-absorbent, to reduce the impact from falls, increase safety, and ensure all people can access play!
Who’s helping fund this project?
We are funded by YOU - our community! The playground has also been awarded numerous grants, including $430,000 for equipment from The Ohio Department of Disabilities and Summit DD. Hudson City Park Board has also awarded the playground an estimated $400,000. We have also been generously supported by local businesses and individual contributors that share our vision of improving the community. This project has been supported by local Mayors; Hudson City Schools; Summit DD, and; Senator Weinstein, Senator Roegner, Congresswoman Sykes, and State Representative Hall.
Where will HIP be?
Hudson Inclusive Playground will be located at:
Middleton Park
1738 Middleton Rd
Hudson, Ohio 44236