Grant Funds Create More Play

In Xenia, Ohio play and recreation is an important part of life. Greene County Parks and Trails is focused on creating opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the outdoors and works hard to provide amenities that contribute to a high quality of life. Recently, members of Greene County Parks attended professional development symposium hosted by Ohio Parks and Recreation Association (OPRA) and PlayCore. During that symposium, attendees learned best practices on creating healthy, active outdoor spaces that encourage physical activity, inclusive play and nature-based activities. Part of a statewide initiative, OPRA hosted similar symposiums throughout the state to promote research-based recreation projects and programming. 

At the conclusion of the symposium, Greene County Parks submitted a grant request to GameTime. Their mission was to put the research into action for the people of Greene County. GameTime responded with matching funds to help build a new playground with accessible, inclusive features for people of all abilities.

Rendering of the proposed play area at Fairgrounds Recreation Center and Park in Xenia, Ohio

The new playground will include accessible routes of travel, ground-level play activities and inclusive swings. There will also be transfer systems and slides designed for people who use a mobility device. It will be a community centerpiece for decades to come and an example for other communities throughout Ohio.