A unique playground project is a step closer to becoming a reality.
Ground was broke Wednesday morning for a new fully accessible playground at Coronado Elementary School. The school was chosen as the location due to Coronado serving the greatest population of kids with severe and multiple disabilities in the county.
The project is being championed by the Salina AMBUCs organization.
According to AMBUCS, this playground will be the only one between Mexico and Canada that features a ramping system to allow children with all abilities to access 5 slide locations and multiple sensory stations for creative play from zero to 10 feet in the air. Their peers and caregivers will have opportunities for safe interactive play. The entire system is installed on a turf material that is conducive to wheelchairs, walkers and kids running.
In addition to the playground, the project has been approved for a grant from the Sunflower Health Foundation to resurface a ΒΌ mile walking trail, with activity stations. USD 305 has committed to additional upgrades to the current facility including relocating the ball field, doubling the parking lot, new benches and fencing for the facility after project has been completed.
The total budget for the project is estimated at $394,477. The AMBUCS organization has coordinated the fund raising effort. The Salina Regional Health Center Community Health Investment Program is the project’s biggest donor.
In an effort to help raise the last $60,000, the Coronado PTO and Noon Network AMBUCS have partnered in a $10,000 matching grant. For every dollar donated, 50 cents will be matched. To leave a legacy for all children in Salina, checks can be written and mailed to 1648 S. Ohio, PMB 192, Salina KS 67401. AMBUCS is a 501(c) 3, so all gifts are tax deductible.
The group is asking for the community’s help in providing a little muscle as well. A “Community Playground Build” is scheduled for Saturday, July 13th. Anyone willing to lend a hand and help work is asked to gather at the playground at 8:00 in the morning that day.
