All-inclusive playground project at Jackson Park receives $150K grant
A $150,000 tourism grant through the Henderson County Tourism Development Authority will go toward the vision of bringing an all-inclusive playground to Jackson Park.
Fundraising efforts are being led by the Hendersonville Elks Lodge in partnership with Special Needs Sports, and Henderson County Parks and Recreation, according to a news release from HCTDA.
The HCTDA helps support local projects through its grants program, including the playground and the Ecusta Trail, the release said.
Jackson Park is the largest municipality-owned park in Western North Carolina. Its 200-plus acres are home to ballfields, basketball courts, tennis courts, a disc golf course, hiking trails, tennis courts, the Oklawaha Greenway, a bike skills area, tons of picnic tables, covered picnic shelters, a dog area and more.
The previous playground in Jackson Park was removed in 2020 due to safety concerns.
“A few months ago, after a conversation with a dear friend, we determined that there was a need for a new playground to be built in Jackson Park. We wanted this playground to be special and stand out from any other park by offering a truly all-inclusive playground for all kids,” said Tommy Laughter from the Hendersonville Elks Lodge. “A committee was formed, and the goal was to offer something where all kids could play together, enjoy each other, and make lifelong friendships, while enjoying a playground that will be special enough to accommodate every little heart that wants to play. The people involved have big hearts and want to leave this community a better place. I want to thank the TDA very much for the kindness of this large donation. This will go a long way at helping us reach our goal.”
The total cost to build this all-inclusive playground is estimated to range from $500,000 to $600,000. The state recently granted $200,000 for playground equipment for the project.
“Most people are surprised at how much this sort of thing costs,” said Carleen Dixon, Director of Henderson County Parks and Recreation. “But the value of a playground like this is truly immeasurable. A playground is usually a child’s initiation into the world of parks and recreation. When a young child goes to a playground, they see the older kids playing sports, a group doing outdoor yoga or playing disc golf, the gardens being maintained by community members, people cycling on the greenway or at the bike area, and they get interested. This kick starts their desire to join in on these activities. Our goal is to keep them involved at all ages, which countless studies have shown can lead to a healthy, active lifestyle and a lifelong love for parks & recreation. What’s more, this connects their entire family to the many things Henderson County Parks & Recreation has to offer.”
Hendersonville and Henderson County is an increasingly popular destination for residents and visitors to take advantage of outdoor recreation. Jackson Park attracts families, pet owners, bird watchers and those looking to enjoy the outdoors while staying close to town, the release said.
“We have such a wide range of people who choose to visit Hendersonville,” said Michelle Owens, Executive Director of the Henderson County Tourism Development Authority. “We know that visiting families love to enjoy our area’s parks and playgrounds, so we believe that this playground will help us to exceed visitors’ expectations, and because the playground will be accessible for people with disabilities as well as those without, it will help to show that we are truly welcoming to people of all ages, interests and abilities.”
Donnie Jones, the creator of WNC Special Needs Sports said, “This is a prime example of what can be accomplished when the private sector, local organizations and local governments work together. I am especially happy that it will be a place where kids are not separated by ability or disability. I have found that kids sort out these type things better than we do as adults. On behalf of Special Needs Sports, I want to thank the TDA for the grant toward the all-inclusive playground at Jackson Park.”
Tax-deductible donations are being accepted towards the total cost of building the Jackson Park all-inclusive playground. To donate, visit www.jacksonparkplayground.com or call 828-697-4884. Those who would like to be involved in this project in other ways can reach out to Carleen Dixon, Director of Henderson County Parks and Recreation, at [email protected] or by calling the number listed above.
