Barb White introduced the guest speakers, Todd Truax and Kerri Lynne Knappett from the Huntsville Public School regarding a new community accessible playground at HPS. The idea for this playground came from the children. They showed a movie, made by the students, called “Kids Opinions”. They say “the current playground is boring, recess feels like war, the playground is like sharing a seatbelt for 5 hours”. Currently, there are obstacles that restrict students in wheel chairs. The playground needs to be accessible and fun for the children. The teachers have gone to CNIB and other groups, the Mayor, our MP, etc. for funding. The classes have done fundraising. Many local businesses have contributed. Total cost would be $ 350,000.00.
They have made a plan, and found a company to create it. Wheel chairs can roll over the whole area on a rubber matting. All kids can play together. Playground would be accessible to the public, open all hours.
It was suggested that they try for an Ativa grant. Another suggestion was that Rotarians might be able to help with site preparation. It was explained that the school board will provide accessible washrooms and elevators but not accessible playgrounds. The school cannot apply for a Trillium grant, but the Rotary club could apply. The School board has approved this as a public park, and will pay for the insurance, liability and maintenance. The builders of this playground are the same as for the River Mill Park playground. The rubberized surface is far superior to wood chips.
President Kim stated that this is one idea from the New Projects Committee. Other ideas are digital signs at entrance to the town, and an outdoor skating rink. Lee Barker thanked Todd and Kerri Lynne for their presentation. He commended the project.
They have made a plan, and found a company to create it. Wheel chairs can roll over the whole area on a rubber matting. All kids can play together. Playground would be accessible to the public, open all hours.
It was suggested that they try for an Ativa grant. Another suggestion was that Rotarians might be able to help with site preparation. It was explained that the school board will provide accessible washrooms and elevators but not accessible playgrounds. The school cannot apply for a Trillium grant, but the Rotary club could apply. The School board has approved this as a public park, and will pay for the insurance, liability and maintenance. The builders of this playground are the same as for the River Mill Park playground. The rubberized surface is far superior to wood chips.
President Kim stated that this is one idea from the New Projects Committee. Other ideas are digital signs at entrance to the town, and an outdoor skating rink. Lee Barker thanked Todd and Kerri Lynne for their presentation. He commended the project.