The playground at Bill Robertson Park will be expanded over the next month with the installation of a wheelchair swing thanks in large part to the Rotary Club of Okotoks.
“The Rotary Club of Okotoks was instrumental in making this project a reality,” said the Town’s parks manager, Rod March. “The work they’ve done has resulted in a substantial enhancement to the accessible amenities available at Bill Robertson Park.
“The Rotary Club does a great job of supporting our community, and we sincerely thank them for making it possible to add this amazing feature that enables all kids to play together."
The Town has committed $10,000 to the project, with the bulk of the funding (in excess of $100,000) coming from the Rotary Club of Okotoks.
“Our members and supporters are thrilled to see this project finally come together after years of planning and fundraising,” said club president Jeff Foss. “We have heard from parents of kids who use wheelchairs about the significant need for this accessible play space. We have observed steady usage of the current play structure, and this expansion will only enhance and improve its accessibility.”
In addition to the installation of the swing, the entire play structure will have the surface replaced with infinity turf simultaneously in order to minimize disruptions.
Work is expected to continue until Aug. 23. The west side of the playground will be closed for approximately two weeks to prepare the swing site. In order to resurface the entire play structure area, portions of the playground will also need to be closed during the work.
The new surface material will result in a cooler, cleaner, more comfortable and safer play area.
“We will be doing all we can to maintain access where we can throughout the play structure as the construction is variable,” said March. “While we know the work can be a bit of an inconvenience to the community, this is such a great additional amenity it will be worth the wait.”
Rotarians have been fundraising for the project since the completion of the accessible picnic shelter at Bill Robertson Park in 2020.
The placement of the handlebars on the We-Go-Swing allows those seated on the bench or in their wheelchair to contribute to the swinging motion, ensuring that all are part of the experience.
