Project Info
Designed to be one of the most accessible playgrounds in the City of San Diego, the design of the Tecolote Shores South Playground utilizes universal design elements to craft a space that takes into consideration a wide array of physical, social, and emotional needs. It offers accommodations throughout the site to allow children of all abilities to learn, grow, and play alongside one another in a manner that is truly inclusive.
The feature element is a raised, planted play mound at the center of the park which provides accessible pathways to the highest points of each play structure. In addition to accessible equipment such as a carousel, rockers, swings, towers, and zipline, the site includes more subtle considerations to allow children to find their “just right” fit in the play space. These elements include play features specially designed to accommodate motor coordination disorders, cozy quietly places for sensory sensitivities, and both tactile and auditory features for visual or hearing impairment. The team worked closely with the City’s Therapeutic Department to develop a series of graphic communication panels for non-verbal visitors which are planned to be integrated into all future City parks, redefining what is considered “standard” for accessibility within the City’s park system.
Awards
- Merit Award, American Society of Landscape Architects, San Diego
- Project of the Year Award, American Public Works Association