Let All The Children Play Universally Accessible Playground at Eisenhower Park

The visionary idea of developing a universally accessible playground for children of all abilities in the heart of Nassau County was first conceived by the then-director of “Let All The Children Play” foundation. The foundation is a Long island not-for-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives and dignity of all children by developing accessible playgrounds, play areas, and inclusive recreation programs.

The 2-acre playground was built in Eisenhower Park, located in East Meadow, New York. The heavily vegetated site included a number of mature trees; the project aimed to preserve all these trees which required creative landscaping and site engineering solutions. In the end, the BBS landscape architectural team provided comfortable, pleasant playground with extensive shading and the feel of connection with nature.

The new playground is designed to promote interaction among children both with and without disabilities. It is a place where children can discover, learn and socialize while developing understanding and sensitivity for one another. BBS’ design allows children of different physical and mental abilities, including those in wheelchairs, to play together and share every area and each piece of play equipment on the playground.

The site is divided into two main areas, with one for the 0-5 year age group and a second for 5-12 year olds. All the equipment and pathways are placed at sufficient distance, which allows locomotion of the wheelchair around the park. The playground has a large amount of seating for parents and guardians. The park also has 4 picnic areas and incorporates an area available for future Nature Exploration Zone.

Project Facts