The City of San Luis Parks and Recreation Department celebrated the opening of a new inclusive playground at Joe Orduño Park on Oct. 1. The ribbon-cutting marked the completion of a project aimed at making play spaces accessible to children of all abilities.
The initiative is significant for families in San Luis, as it creates opportunities for children with different needs to interact and play together. The project was made possible through partnerships with Campesinos Sin Fronteras Thrive Program, the Cocopah Indian Tribe, and Dave Bang Associates.
While the main playground structure already existed, several new features were added to improve accessibility. These include a bilingual communication board to help nonverbal children express themselves, upgraded T-swings with accessible rubber surfacing so children do not have to cross sand, and an Accessible Whirl. Angelica Roldan, Director of Parks and Recreation, said, “The main feature of this project is creating a space where all children, regardless of ability, can integrate and play together.” Roldan also said, “Our goal is to continue adding inclusive features to our parks and activities, ensuring that every child in San Luis has a safe space where they can grow, thrive, and be their very best.”
The city promotes community engagement through open council meetings and public events according to the official website. It is dedicated to providing essential services such as public safety, parks and recreation programs, and economic development initiatives according to the official website.
Nieves Riedel has served as mayor according to the official website, leading a city that has grown from a small town into a thriving community in Arizona according to the official website. The city operates under a council-manager form of government according to the official website.
San Luis continues its commitment by offering services including public safety through police and fire departments as well as parks and recreation programs according to the official website. The city says it remains committed “to building an inclusive community where every resident feels welcome, supported, and celebrated.”
