Less than a year after breaking ground for an inclusive playground, Cupertino city officials gathered at Jollyman Park on June 13 for the opening of what Mayor Liang Chao, called “a joyful and essential space where everyone can experience the freedom and fun of play.”
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The playground is designed for use by individuals of all abilities and ages, including those with autism, sensory sensitivities, and physical or developmental challenges. Equipment includes a slide hill, nonverbal communication signage, accessible swings and sand play area, an interactive art feature, a net climber and a chalk art wall.
The grand opening featured a performance by the Friends of Children with Special Needs Dream Achiever Band and concluded with a ribbon-cutting to officially open the playground to the public.
The total project cost was approximately $5.4 million. Funding for the playground came from state and local sources. Total city funding for the project was $2,580,000. Additional project costs were covered through a $1,448,201 matching grant from Santa Clara County, as well as $1 million in state funding from the California State Parks and Recreation Department, secured with the support of Assemblymembers Evan Low and Patrick Ahrens. PG&E also donated $25,000 toward the playground’s construction.
The project broke ground last July, and construction was completed in May.
For more information, visit Cupertino.gov/jollymanplayground.