Asheville Parks & Recreation celebrates grand opening of city’s first all-abilities playground on June 25
Asheville Parks & Recreation is gearing up to unveil the city’s first all-abilities playground at Murphy-Oakley Community Center on June 25. The grand opening event will kick off at 1:30 p.m. with a brief ceremony. Following the ceremony, attendees can enjoy treats from Annie B’s Homemade Ice Cream.
A Playground for All
The new playground features a variety of slides, climbing and spinning structures, swings, musical instruments, and designated cognitive play areas to ignite creativity and encourage healthy fun for children of all abilities. An integrated “serenity spot” offers a cozy retreat for children, caregivers, and parents. The playground is also equipped with new sidewalks for easy access by individuals with wheelchairs or limited mobility, and the colorful non-slip rubber surfacing minimizes the risk of falls. To ensure safety, a vibrant safety fence encloses the area.
Addressing Community Needs
Playgrounds serve as essential spaces for childhood development and should embrace and inspire individuals of all abilities. The all-abilities playground is specifically designed to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities through an inclusive and innovative environment supporting physical, social-emotional, sensory, and communication development.
Community Investment Project
The all-abilities playground project is part of Asheville’s efforts to enhance parks and recreation initiatives in the city. This project is one of many aimed at upgrading playgrounds, improving community centers, enhancing sports facilities, and acquiring new parkland.
Modernizing Asheville’s Playgrounds
The opening of the new playground at Murphy-Oakley Community Center follows recent upgrades to outdoor amenities. With plans for playground replacements at other locations, Asheville Parks & Recreation is committed to modernizing and enhancing its playground offerings throughout the city to provide safe, inclusive, and engaging play spaces for all communities.
Located at 749 Fairview Road, Murphy-Oakley Community Center is a hub for recreational activities in Asheville, offering a range of outdoor and indoor facilities.
About Asheville Parks & Recreation
Asheville Parks & Recreation manages public parks, playgrounds, and open spaces in the city, in addition to recreation centers, swimming pools, sports fields, and community centers offering programs for residents of all ages. With a focus on promoting community engagement, wellness, and exploration of the city’s natural beauty, Asheville Parks & Recreation strives to create a vibrant and accessible environment for all residents.
