Construction begins on accessible playground in Eisenhower Park

Soon, the mantra of Let All The Children Play will become a reality at Eisenhower Park. 

Ground was broken on the project to construct a new two-acre playground that caters to both children with disabilities and their able-bodied peers. 

Local elected officials joined with members of Let All The Children Play (LATCP), a non-profit organization that spearheaded and provided funds for the initiative, to celebrate the groundbreaking on Oct. 26 at the site next to Parking Field No. 4. 

“You will have to look long and hard to find a better example of a successful public-private partnership that works for the greater good of the community,” said County Executive Edward Mangano. “I am very proud of all of the organizations and officials who have come together to finally make this park a reality.”

The playground will feature inclusive programming geared toward all children, especially those with autism, physical, cognitive, developmental and intellectual abilities. The equipment includes adapted structures, swings and ramps. 

Let All The Children Play, based in Woodmere, also hosts other initiatives, including a sports clinic it held at Hofstra in August.  Children and young adults of all abilities were invited to take part in sports clinics run by Hofstra athletes, who signed autographs afterwards. 

Assemblyman Harvey Weisenberg (D-Long Beach), known as an advocate for people with disabilities, also provided his support to the project. 

“This park will enhance the quality of life and promote family here in Nassau County,” Weisenberg said. “No child should have barriers that stop them from being a child.”

Funding for the $1.3 million project is largely financed through the Nassau County Environmental Bond Act of 2006, along with a state grant sponsored by Weisenberg, a Parks and Recreation environmental grant and donations through the LATCP. 

“All children should be provided with play environments that engage their imaginations,” said LATCP Executive Director David Weingarten, an Atlantic Beach resident. “We need this playground in order to break down barriers, not only in playgrounds, but in the way people think, so that inclusion of all children is a priority, not an after thought.”

For more information on Let All The Children Play, visit www.latcp.org or call (516) 569-0648 and for more information about the Parks Department, visit www.nassaucountyny.gov/parks or call (516) 572-0200.