Intermountain Sensory Park Opens for Inclusive Outdoor Play
The grand opening of the Intermountain Sensory Park is set for October 3, 2023, in Tucson, Arizona, providing an inclusive outdoor play area designed specifically for children of all abilities. Developed in collaboration between Intermountain Academy and the City of Tucson, this new facility addresses a critical need for safe, engaging spaces for youth, particularly those with autism.
Recognizing a gap in outdoor play options for children with disabilities, Intermountain Academy sought to create a space that fosters exploration and social interaction. Raakel Elzy, Vice President of Clinical Operations Specialty Services at Intermountain Centers, emphasized the park’s significance. “The park is special to our students because they can really access the materials in a safe way,” Elzy stated. “Kids with autism are known to wander and not have adequate safety skills, so it really gives both staff, caregivers, families, and the students a great place to play in a super safe environment.”
The park features a variety of play areas, including a music zone, hopscotch, and a maze. Elzy noted that the swing set is particularly popular among children, serving as an effective tool for communication and interaction. “We’ll pause and we’ll say, ‘more swing’ or ‘again,’” she explained. “They can make eye contact and use their peer or staff member’s name.”
Phased Development and Community Support
The development of Intermountain Sensory Park has been in progress since 2020, divided into three distinct phases. The first phase included a playground for children aged 5-12, along with essential amenities like shaded structures and fencing. Matt Christman, Project Manager for the City of Tucson Parks and Recreation, detailed the subsequent phases, highlighting the addition of turf, nature play, and musical equipment in the second phase. The final phase introduced pickleball courts and painted games on the concrete.
The park’s design reflects a commitment to sensory engagement. “We have areas where kids can dig in the sand to find fossils and play music,” Christman said. “The artificial turf allows them to feel different textures, while the sounds of the pickleball courts provide additional sensory experiences.”
Funding for the project was a collaborative effort, raising just over $1 million through donations. The City of Tucson contributed approximately $76,600 for design development, while the Tohono O’odham Nation provided a gaming grant of $41,400.
Community Access and Future Plans
During school hours, the park will be accessible exclusively to students of Intermountain Academy. However, community members will have the opportunity to enjoy the park on weekdays from 6:00 to 8:00 a.m. and from 5:00 p.m. to sunset. On weekends, holidays, and throughout the summer, the park will be open from 6:00 a.m. to sunset.
This initiative not only enhances recreational options for children with disabilities but also promotes a community spirit, inviting families to come together in a safe and enjoyable environment. The grand opening event on October 3 will welcome the entire Tucson community to experience this innovative space dedicated to inclusive play.
As the park opens its doors, it stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and community support in creating opportunities for all children to thrive.
