With plenty of sunny days left this year, itโs important to keep moving and have some fun. Thankfully, Indy Parks and Recreation offers a range of playgrounds big and small, and that number is still growing! We know how important play is for building imagination, social skills, and coordination, which is why weโve been hard at work improving playgrounds for Indianapolis residents to enjoy.
In October 2021 Mayor Joe Hogsett announced $16.7 million in federal funding from the American Rescue Plan Act to build new playgrounds at parks across the city. For many of these parks, the improvements will replace play features that are decades old. This project includes a special focus on small neighborhood parks, perfect for taking the kids after school or on a weekend picnic.
Thanks to $80 million from the Lilly Endowment, plans are underway to upgrade 42 parks across all townships in Indianapolis. These projects include everything from sports fields and courts to splash pads and trails, and building new playgrounds at 18 additional neighborhood parks. In total, this means weโll be replacing playgrounds at over 40% of our Indianapolis parks!
These projects will transform parks across our city, making them safer and more enjoyable for the whole family. Many of our new additions, including the playground at Rev. Charles R. Williams Park, include sensory-friendly play features, adaptive swings, and wheelchair access. The new Frederick Douglass Park playground is a must-visit. It features one of our tallest climbing structures, along with a huge slide and a wooden imaginative space. Along the outside rim of the playground are musical instruments for exploring and outdoor workout machines for parents and caregivers to use while watching kiddos play. There is truly something for everyone, which is why Indy Parks playgrounds are the place to be!