The Inclusive Playground In Rhode Island That’s Oh-So Special
By Beth Price-Williams|Published December 27, 2022
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
A playground is usually a haven for kids – a place where they can go running around and play and get lost in their imagination. However, not all kids have the ability to go to all playgrounds because the majority aren’t designed with all kids in mind. That’s what makes this inclusive playground in Rhode Island so special. It welcomes kids of all abilities.
North Providence unveiled its inclusive, handicap-accessible playground, Encompass Park, in November 2022, and it’s scored glowing reviews, from those who have visited, ever since.
Tucked on the corner of June Street and Lillian Street, Encompass Park was the result of the efforts of local parents, the town council in North Providence, and Governor Dan McKee.
Built for half a million dollars, the inclusive playground boasts fun activities that everyone can enjoy, including swings that accommodate kids in wheelchairs.
The experience begins in the parking lot, where you’ll find plenty of handicapped parking spaces while the park itself features ramps to make it easy to maneuver a wheelchair.
Encompass Park is designed for kids between three and 12. In addition to the wheelchair-accessible swings, the park also features a merry-go-round, slides, and a jungle gym. There’s even a ping-pong table for the kids.
The inclusive playground was named Encompass Park to emphasize that it’s for all kids, regardless of their ability. However, adult supervision is strongly encouraged while the kids are playing.
Discover another surprise at this Rhode Island park – a Little Free Library. It, too, is handicap accessible. If you’ve never seen a Little Free Library, it’s a mini library where visitors can borrow a book or add a book.
Have you been to this inclusive playground in Rhode Island? What do you think? Share your experience in the comments! Next time you’re craving some time away, set off on one of these weekend getaways in Rhode Island.
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