Meeting Set To Discuss New Minch Park Apparatus

Everybody Plays, a group of local residents who believe that children of all abilities should be able to enjoy outdoor recreational activities together, has chosen the playground in Parkesburg's Minch Park as its first project.

Plans call for the playground's main structure to be fully wheelchair accessible, which would include a merry-go-round and interactive play panels, both of which could accommodate wheelchair users. "The renovations have to happen anyway so if we're going to this, let's do it for everybody," said Everybody Plays committee member Sara Rice. She added, "We plan to renovate all outdoor recreational spaces in Parkesburg. (Minch Park) is where we are starting."

The proposed playground would also include a disc swing, where a number of children can swing together. "We have some kids in the community who have core strength issues that make swinging hard for them," noted Rice. "This disc swing shares momentum, and they can all play together. Kids who could not normally swing will be able to swing."

Additionally, the playground will include an area for children with sensory issues who need a break from play. "It is a cozy cocoon, an egg-shaped seat," said Rice. "If a kid is overwhelmed, the kid can sit in there and take a break."

She shared that the idea to make changes at the playground came from Chrissy Smatz of Coatesville, past president of the Parkesburg Lions Club. "She's the executive director of Everybody Plays, and this is largely her brainchild," said Rice. "She wanted to build an accessible, inclusive playground. That's how this started, and it just snowballed as interest grew until we realized (Everybody Plays) needed to be its own nonprofit organization."

She said that the Borough of Parkesburg is on board with the project. "The parks and rec committee is working with us to make sure the plans meet the borough's requirements and codes," she said. "Todd Brade, who is on the committee, has been amazing about getting us the information and support we need."

A planning meeting was held on Sept. 14 at the Parkesburg VFW. Once the plans are finalized, the group will need to raise funding, which will include applying for grants. A festival is also being planned for Saturday, Oct. 29, in conjunction with the annual Parkesburg Halloween Parade and Trunk or Treat.

"For the playground portion, it will take about two years to start construction," said Rice. "Right now we are fixed on the younger kids, but it's about having recreational opportunities for people of every ability and age level, (including) seniors. Inclusivity is the thing. There is space for everyone."

For more information about the project, search for "Everybody Plays" on Facebook.