Across the country, communities come together to build playgrounds with the help of local organizations like KABOOM! and the Junior League of Long Island (JLLI). These project playgrounds serve kids at schools, churches, community centers and other public spaces. The process requires a variety of skills to successfully bring the project from planning to construction.
The first step is identifying the right site and finding an appropriate design. Then comes the budget. Whether the group is working with a fixed amount of money or arranging fundraising projects, it’s important to know what can and cannot be built. The next step is choosing the equipment. This includes structural equipment, which makes up the main structure of the playground and freestanding equipment that’s not attached to that main structure. Many different types of equipment are available, from sensory experiences to fitness components that offer a variety of movement-based activities.
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Once the equipment has been chosen, the group can start thinking about theming and conceptualizing the entire space. During this phase, it’s also helpful to consider what’s underneath the ground. You don’t want to hit a utility line during construction or have the local power company dig up and disrupt the build.
A successful project playground is a collaborative effort that involves a variety of different skill sets. For example, volunteers with legal or clerical backgrounds may assist with acquiring the necessary permits and complying with city government and zoning regulations. Those with sales or event-planning skills can help organize the fundraisers that will help to pay for the equipment. Other volunteers with engineering, plumbing or landscape experience can help with the physical construction.