In real life: Legacy Grove Youth Design Team sees ideas implemented

More than two-dozen Clark County children saw their ideas for a new two-acre Adventure Play Area come to life at Legacy Grove park Friday evening. The 25-member Youth Design Team and their families got a first-hand look at construction progress at the Winchester park that’s expected to open in late spring/early summer.

“Our youth have ownership in this play area and park,” said Beth Jones, project manager, The Greater Clark Foundation. “We wanted to make sure they were on-site during construction to see their vision become reality. Their excitement is genuine, and they should be proud of their work.”

The Team – made up of students from area public, private and home schools – trained to be play experts during a three-day series of workshops in fall 2016. They were in fourth through sixth grades at the time. The students considered the community’s current and future needs and presented their findings during a “Power of Play” open house.

“It’s rare that youth are involved in the planning process alongside the designers,” said Michelle Mathis, principal at Learning Landscapes Design. “But that’s not the only thing that makes the Legacy Grove play area special. Features were designed to stimulate the healthy development of children physically, socially, and mentally.”

The Adventure Play Area includes a one-of-a-kind dulcimer climber, creek, and loose parts play that will encourage children to use their imagination, be creative, problem-solve, make new friends and play together. The play area is ADA accessible and consideration of inclusive play was given a top priority in its design.

Construction on the 30-acre Legacy Grove continues despite rain delays. Beyond the Adventure Play Area, the public park will feature nature trails, a one-mile, paved walking path, and open lawns. The dog park is expected to open by the end of 2019. Legacy Grove was designed to be inclusive to people of all abilities.