Oakledge Universally Accessible Playground Presentation

Come learn about the plans for the Vermont’s first universally accessible playground that’s envisioned for Oakledge Park. The evening will include background on the project, a presentation of the plans from the designers from GroundView, and discussion about what the next steps are to make this into a reality!

What are the goals of the Oakledge Universally Accessible Playground?

• Create a Regional Play Destination
• Celebrate social, physical and cultural diversity
• Strengthen our com- munity
• Provide access to Lake Champlain for more people
• Design a unique play experience for children & adults
• Exceed ADA standards and strive to achieve UA design principles
• Convenient to Burlington Greenway

Currently, children and adults have very limited access to accessible outdoor play and recreation opportunities in the region. This playground will serve as a model for other communities inspired to add more universally accessible (UA) elements of design to their own parks and playgrounds.

What is universal design?

The design and composition of an environment so that it can be accessed, understood and used to the greatest extent possible by all people regardless of their age, size, ability or disability. Center for Excellence in Universal Design

Seven Principles of Universal Design

1. Equitable Use: The design is useful and marketable to people with diverse abilities.
2. Flexibility in Use: The design accommodates a wide range of individual preference and abilities.
3. Simple and Intuitive Use: Use of the design is easy to understand, regardless of skill or current concentration level.
4. Perceptible Information: The design communicates necessary information effectively to the user, regardless of ambient conditions or the user’s sensory abilities.
5. Tolerance for Error: The design minimizes hazards and the adverse consequences of accidental or unintended actions.
6. Low Physical Effort: The design can be used efficiently and comfortably with a minimum of fatigue.
7. Size and Space for Approach and Use: Appropriate size and space is provided for approach, reach, manipulation and use regardless of user’s body size, posture or mobility.