Hilton Head Island Unveils Plan for Trailblazing Inclusive Playground

Hilton Head Island to Construct Trailblazing Inclusive Playground

In a groundbreaking move for inclusivity, Hilton Head Island has unveiled plans for an accessible playground that everyone, regardless of their physical limitations, can enjoy. The planned infrastructure at Shelter Cove Community Park received approval from the Town Council and signals a prominent element of the island’s commitment towards fostering an inclusive community.

In Collaboration with Special Partners

The innovative playground project springs from a collaboration between the Island and Miracle Recreation, a playground manufacturing entity, along with Best Buddies, a non-profit organization devoted to generating opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Barring any unforeseen circumstances, the partnership will continue to advance and this inclusive recreational space could be part of the vanguard of Best Buddies-Miracle Recreation playgrounds installed nationally.

The forward-thinking town council members expressed unanimous endorsement for the progressive playground project during an official meeting held on August 20. Councilman Alex Brown echoed the excitement of the council, emphasizing the core tenets of community inclusion central in the town’s strategic plans. He, along with his fellow council members, takes pride in being an early adopter of such a progressive initiative.

Park Progress Developments

While the detailed park design remains under development until 2025, the Best Buddies website provides a glimpse into the appealing features that the innovative playground will offer. The playground area aims to utilize surfacing methods such as tiles, poured-in-place techniques, or turf to facilitate balance-challenged individuals or those using mobility devices in experiencing the play space fully alongside their peers.

Sensory play opportunities, tailored equipment for wheelchair users and tools for children suffering from hypertonia, a condition that causes excessive muscle tone, are also expected inclusions in the design.

Additions to the Shelter Cove Community Park

The Shelter Cove Community Park Master Plan also proposes essential modifications and additions to the current park, aiming to accommodate the inclusive playground and achieve a holistic communal recreational environment. The revisions to the Project Scope were initially introduced by town staff and a consultant team in 2022, officially incorporated by Town Council in 2023. The adjustments encompass:

• Expanding the park’s paved promenade area
• Developing a pathway network in the forested region
• Increasing open lawns for passive enjoyment and public art display
• Creating additional vehicle parking spaces
• Constructing an overlook structure with views of Broad Creek

The pristine location and high usage of Shelter Cove makes it the ideal location for the state-of-the-art playground, asserts Councilwoman Patsy Brison, who eagerly anticipates seeing this inclusive park come into action.

With the collaborative efforts of Hilton Head Island and Best Buddies set to gear up in 2025, a budget of $500,000 has been allocated from the town’s 2025 Capital Improvement Plan for the park design. The construction stage is projected to commence in 2026.

In conclusion, this cutting-edge initiative is a significant stride towards creating a more inclusive community space and setting a remarkable precedent that other cities can follow. The residents of Hilton Head Island can look forward to a novel, inclusive space that embodies the ethos of a truly integrated community – here on our island.