Navy's First Playground for Children with Disabilities Opens at NAS Jacksonville

By Culinary Specialist 2nd Class Sylvia Morris, Naval Air Station Jacksonville Public Affairs

June 2, 2010 - JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (NNS) -- Naval Air Station Jacksonville (NAS Jax) held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Patriots Grove Playground specifically designed for children with disabilities May 28.

This is the first of its kind to open on a Navy installation. NAS Jax is one of seven bases worldwide to receive the accessible playground equipment.

The equipment was purchased by Commander, Navy Installations Command with the overall project including equipment and installation costing $187,000. Base in-kind funds were also used to upgrade sidewalks, restrooms, lighting and the parking lot.

The project began March 8 with contractors removing the previous playground equipment, preparing the area and building the new play area.

"This is a really unique playground because it has two separate areas for different aged children. We've had a lot of military families stopping by asking when the playground is opening so I know they will definitely be using it quite a bit," said Jacob McKanna, site superintendent for Can't Be Beat Fence and Construction Company.

"Our new Patriots Grove Playground serves as an example of NAS Jacksonville's and the Navy's commitment to support our families," said NAS Jax Commanding Officer Capt. Jeffrey Maclay. "It's been a great effort by the entire team. Vice Chief of Naval Operations Adm. [Jonathan] Greenert recently said our Sailors and families require a family support network that provides relevant services and links the unit, family and the Navy. Today's ribbon-cutting exemplifies his vision."

"This really was an all-hands effort from the initial concept of the project, getting the funding, and the support from MWR (Morale, Welfare and Recreation) and the contractor," said NAS Jax Public Works Officer Cmdr. Bill Siemer. "We actually came in a little bit ahead of schedule and even acquired some extra funds and to make some extra improvements."

The playground features one continuous surface from the parking lot to the structures.

"The old playground really wasn't friendly for... children [with disabilities]. This one will accommodate them. There are specially designed ramps and the features are low enough so that a parent in a wheelchair can also come out and play with their children," said NAS Jax Public Works Construction Manager Ensign Matthew Ward.

One of the first to try out the new equipment with her children was Stephanie Melson, who also advocated for the project.

"NAS Jax and the Navy do a wonderful job of taking care of their families and those with special needs. I think this park is a testament to that and we're so excited to be a part of it and let our children play here. It's really beautiful," said Melson.

"My children aren't special-needs but there are a lot of them living on base and in the community. There aren't many parks around that are really accessible so to have this here on base is huge. It's also great for those with very young kids who are just learning to walk. I hope that parents with special needs kids will come out and play with the rest of us."