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   Four years ago, a small child went to the Stuart Memorial Community Park to play. When he arrived with his community worker, he stood at the edge of the playground just looking. This young man, with autism, has mobility, sensory and trust concerns, was unsure of the tire mulch ground cover because he did not want to fall. With concern, the community worker started looking at other playgrounds, including the local schools. This made her wonder, how many other children see the playground as not accessible? The worker interviewed some parents, an adult with accessible concerns, school education teachers, and physical therapists to determine the need for accessibility. She gave presentation to the Longville city council for approval to continue developing a plan to make a dream to make the community park accessible to all who live, visit and vacation around the area. At this time, it was also noted that there are many adults in the area that might benefit from making the ground cover more accessible so they can play with their (grand) children. 

   The worker contacted several contractor of playground to understand the price and equipment available. At this time, another woman decided to join the effort to redesign the present playground. After continuing research of contractors and regulations, the pair was able to present a plan to the Longville Community Park and Recreation Committee. Fund raising started and money was collected from many organizations. After over a year, enough money was collected to purchase some equipment. At the beginning of May a small dedicated group of volunteers started removing the tire mulch in anticipation of the start of installation of the new equipment and the relocation of some existing pieces. On May 27, 2025, the project of installation began. After 3 days, the equipment was installed and the ground was prepared for the installation of a ground cover called PIP (Poured in Place) to make it easier for anyone with mobility concerns to easily access the playground. Finally, the ground cover was completed and a date for the Grand Reopening was set. 

   There will be a Grand Opening on July 5 at 11:00 a.m., to celebrate this “Dream Come True”. We will have root beer floats, some words from our mayor and a ribbon cutting with some of the youth. We hope everyone, whether you’re a vacationer, resident or tourist, will come and help us officially open the playground to everyone in our community. Also, while you’re there take a look at all the improvements that have been made to the Stuart Memorial Park on Highway 84 South, just on the edge of Longville.

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