Kids with disabilities can enjoy new universally-accessible playground in Surrey

May 2 2019, 1:59 am

A new children’s playground in a public park in Surrey will have a standout design for universal accessibility.

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Canadian Tire’s Jumpstart Charities is funding the construction of a universally-accessible playground in Unwin Park in Surrey’s Newton area.

This playground will be the largest in Surrey with a footprint of 12,000-sq-ft, which has ramps that criss-cross all of the play areas, allowing kids with disabilities — including those in wheelchairs — and other users to enjoy the equipment.

The flooring design also incorporates a giant Canadian Tire logo, spanning the entire playground site, acknowledging the company’s contribution.

No construction start and completion dates have been established at this time.

Surrey playground universally accessible

Artistic rendering of the universally-accessible playground at Unwin Park in Surrey. (Canadian Tire)

Surrey playground universally accessible

Artistic rendering of the universally-accessible playground at Unwin Park in Surrey. (Canadian Tire)

“Our parks and playgrounds play a vital role in providing a fun, safe and welcoming environment for children,” said Surrey Mayor Doug McCallum, in a statement.

“This new inclusive playground is a welcome addition for our children and all members of our community for years to come. My thanks to the Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities for this generous gift that will compliment Unwin Park’s universally accessible water park.”

The Canadian retail giant’s charity division’s “Play Finds A Way” initiative focuses on removing accessibility barriers to sport and play. To date, it has funded seven playgrounds across the country, including playgrounds in Charlottetown, Toronto, Winnipeg, Prince Albert, and most recently in Calgary and Saint John.

The universally-accessible playground adds to the 36-acre Unwin Park’s offerings, which already include baseball diamonds, cricket and soccer fields, lacrosse boxes, a basketball court, and outdoor pool and water park.

Surrey playground universally accessible

Artistic rendering of the universally-accessible playground at Unwin Park in Surrey. (Canadian Tire)

Surrey playground universally accessible

Artistic rendering of the universally-accessible playground at Unwin Park in Surrey. (Canadian Tire)

Earlier this year, the provincial government announced a $5-million budget to build 50 new playgrounds in schools across BC.

This follows the provincial government’s initial investment in 2018 of allocating $5 million for the first 51 playgrounds under BC’s Playground Equipment Program. All of these initial playgrounds have been completed.

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Kenneth ChanKenneth Chan

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