Play is a vital part of the human experience, and not just for children. A playspace that is thoughtfully designed and appropriately managed just might become the beating heart of your community.
Unfortunately, not everyone has access to vibrant, inclusive, accessible and safe playspaces. If your community is lacking such a resource, perhaps the time is right to create one.
Where to begin? Here is what you need to know if you are dreaming about bringing a new playspace project to life:
Engage the Community
In the beginning, the most important step you can take is simply to listen. Create surveys, hold town meetings or focus groups, and build a social media presence so supporters can follow along and share their thoughts.
Ask a lot of questions. Find out what is most important to the community, especially regarding inclusivity, equitable access and appropriate cultural representation. A playspace must serve children of all ages and abilities, and it should reflect the people it serves.
Next, find an appropriate location for the new playspace. Ideally, the site should be easily accessible, and it should be a safe, natural gathering place for children.
Make sure that the land is zoned for recreational use, otherwise you’ll need to seek rezoning before you proceed. Check for any other legal restrictions as well.
These might include environmental regulations, easements, deed restrictions, covenants, title disputes, and property owners’ association rules. If you do run into issues, consult with local authorities and experts before proceeding.
A successful playspace design will maximize play value in its available footprint. In other words, it will offer diverse, fun and enriching activities that are engaging and easily accessible to all — without overcrowding or compromising safety.
Consider working with a playground designer or a landscape architect. They can help you design a dynamic space that will foster children’s healthy development, and they will ensure that it follows all safety guidelines for layout, setbacks, surfaces, equipment and accessibility.
Create a Budget
Your final design will determine your final numbers. Put together your cost list, from design and equipment to installation and maintenance, and build two budgets: one for project launch, and one for ongoing upkeep so the playspace will remain welcoming, appealing and safe.
A reminder: Be realistic about your budget. Unforeseen costs can disrupt a project.
To fund the new playspace, you likely will need to do two things: apply for grants and sponsorships, and hold local and online fundraisers. Make sure to have a communications plan in place so you can regularly share updates with donors, funding partners, the community and local media.
As far as purchasing contracts are concerned, don’t worry! They sound intimidating, but this process can be simplified. As you continue planning for your new playspace, review the purchasing contracts offered through our partners.
Not only will purchasing through one of these contracts simplify the process, it will ensure that you can remain true to your design and your intention to create a place for your community to gather, grow and thrive.
When you’re fully funded, it’s time for delivery and installation — with the assistance of professionals who understand the equipment as well as playground safety. Stay involved to monitor their progress, and continue communicating regularly with your stakeholders.
What happens if you’re not fully funded? Shift gears, and create a flexible approach that allows you to open and expand the playspace in phases.
Open the New Playspace!
As far as the playspace’s grand opening is concerned, engage your community in advance so they are enthusiastic and feel a sense of ownership. Send invitations, offer volunteering opportunities, and arrange special activities and refreshments for the big day.
Don’t forget to set up a process for gathering feedback and suggestions once the playspace is open. This will encourage a strong, healthy relationship with the community and keep the lines of communication open for months and years to come.
Ongoing Maintenance and Support
Moving forward, you will be able to work closely with our customer service team and your Burke representatives to make sure your playground equipment receives appropriate routine maintenance.
If you have questions or need additional service, we’re just a phone call away. Together, we will make sure your playspace is everything you dreamed it would be, now and into the future.
Explore the ways Burke can help you create a more accessible and inclusive outdoor space. Contact your nearest Burke representative for more information.
Additional Resources:
National Recreation and Park Association
Provides information about park/playground planning, safety, design and community engagement; grant opportunities; and training programs.
International Playground Equipment Manufacturers Association
Certifies playground equipment for safety, and offers design and safety tips.
KaBOOM!
A nonprofit organization that provides a DIY toolkit for community-led projects. This includes fundraising tips and partnership opportunities.
American Society of Landscape Architects
Provides information about playspace design, accessibility and sustainable practices.