Pioneering the future of inclusive recreation
By Adam Arndt
Moss Universal Park is a revolutionary, innovative project designed to create a universally inclusive recreational space. Scheduled to break ground in spring 2025 and open by fall in Wauwatosa, Wis., the park will set a new benchmark for accessibility and inclusivity in public spaces across the country.
Redefining Inclusivity In Parks
Moss Universal Park will be the first of its kind in the United States, aiming to bridge the gap between accessibility and true inclusivity. While the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has been in place for more than three decades, the park aspires to go beyond mere compliance to offer a space where individuals of all ages and abilities can fully engage. From the forest trails to the baseball fields, and from sensory rooms to picnic areas, every aspect of the park is designed with inclusivity in mind.
The project is the brainchild of Damian Buchman, founder of The Ability Center, an organization that provides people with disabilities daily opportunities to be fit, active, and healthy, and to play in the Milwaukee area. A two-time childhood-cancer survivor, Buchman’s vision for the park stems from his personal experiences and a desire to create a space where children with disabilities, their families, and even grandparents can enjoy themselves together.
“This park is about more than just accessibility,” Buchman says. “It’s about creating a place where everyone—regardless of age, ability, or background—can experience the joy of recreation without barriers.”
The project is led by a local construction company that played a crucial role in the planning stages of Moss Universal Park, offering valuable expertise to ensure its success. By partnering with leaders in playground design, the company is helping to set new standards for inclusive park development.
This partnership is significant, not only for its technical contributions but also for its role in fostering community support. The project’s local roots are generating considerable buzz in the state. However, achieving full funding and raising awareness remain challenging. The project depends heavily on independently generated support and visibility, emphasizing the need to educate the public on the distinction between ADA compliance and true inclusivity.
Building For Everyone
Moss Universal Park’s commitment to mental health and sensory needs is a standout feature. The park will include quiet spaces within the forest, sensory rooms, and adult-size changing tables in restrooms, ensuring comprehensive accessibility. The goal is to provide a fulfilling and engaging experience for every visitor.
Practical Tips For Implementation
For other parks and recreational areas considering similarly inclusive projects, here are several key recommendations based on the Moss Universal Park experience:
1. Engage Early With Experts
Collaborating with specialists in universal design and playground equipment from the outset is essential for ensuring that inclusivity is a fundamental component of a project. Early engagement with experts allows for a comprehensive approach to accessibility, integrating best practices and innovative solutions into the park's design. This collaboration should include landscape architects, accessibility consultants, and playground-equipment manufacturers who specialize in creating inclusive environments. Their expertise can help identify potential barriers and provide creative solutions that might not be apparent to those without specialized knowledge. Moreover, involving these experts early in the process can prevent costly redesigns and retrofits, ensuring a park is both accessible and functional from day one.
2. Educate The Community
Understanding the difference between ADA compliance and true inclusion is vital for projects like Moss Universal Park. Access alone does not ensure inclusion; true inclusion means creating spaces that engage children with and without disabilities, accommodate parents with disabilities, and consider older adults with limited mobility. Building a genuinely inclusive park means embracing universal design that goes beyond the playground. Effective communication strategies—informational sessions, educational materials, and social media—are key to gaining community support and clarifying the project’s goals. Sharing personal stories and collaborating with local advocacy groups can also help shift societal perceptions and emphasize that access is not the same as inclusion.
3. Address Funding Challenges
Independent funding efforts for projects like Moss Universal Park can be challenging but are essential for success. Developing a comprehensive fundraising strategy involves identifying potential funding sources, including grants, donations, sponsorships, and fundraising events. Building strong community partnerships is also crucial. Local businesses, community organizations, and philanthropic foundations can provide both financial support and in-kind contributions. It is important to communicate the project’s value and impact clearly to potential funders, emphasizing how a park will benefit the entire community. Additionally, leveraging media coverage and social media campaigns can raise awareness and attract donations. A transparent approach, where the community can see the direct impact of its contributions, can further enhance fundraising efforts.
4. Consider Sensory Needs
Incorporating features that address various sensory needs is a critical aspect of enhancing the park’s inclusivity. Sensory-friendly design elements, such as quiet areas, sensory rooms, and diverse textures and sounds, can make a park accessible to individuals with sensory-processing disorders, autism, and other disabilities. For example, quiet areas provide a retreat for those who may become overwhelmed by the park’s activities. Sensory rooms equipped with calming lights, sounds, and textures offer a controlled environment where visitors can regulate sensory input. Additionally, using a variety of textures on playground surfaces and equipment can provide sensory stimulation that is both engaging and soothing. By considering these sensory needs, a park can offer a welcoming environment for all visitors.
5. Plan For Maintenance
Ensuring that all facilities, including specialized restrooms and sensory rooms, are regularly maintained is crucial for upholding a park’s accessibility standards. A detailed maintenance plan should be established, outlining the regular inspection and upkeep of all park features. This includes routine cleaning, repairs, and updates to equipment and facilities to ensure they remain functional and accessible. It is also important to train maintenance staff on the specific needs of the park's inclusive features and how to address them. Establishing a feedback mechanism where visitors can report issues or suggest improvements can help maintain the park's standards. Regular audits and assessments by accessibility experts can also ensure that the park continues to meet the highest inclusivity standards. A well-maintained park not only serves its intended purpose but also demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity and accessibility.
Moss Universal Park is more than a playground; it represents a vision for the future of inclusive recreational spaces. With Buchman’s leadership and the support of the project’s leaders, this groundbreaking facility promises to set a new standard for accessibility and inclusivity, benefiting patrons for generations to come.
Adam Arndt is President of Catalyst Construction. As the overall project leader, he brings a unique understanding of the owner’s priorities for the project and the responsibilities of the construction manager. Working with owners to understand their mission, wants, and constraints, he helps find unique solutions to the problems that many mission-driven companies face.