In Spring of 2009 individuals, businesses, organizations, churches and other volunteers will come together to build a uniquely designed playground “Designed by Children, Built by Community”.

The donation of the land and its use, have been approved by the White River State Park Commission.  The Playground site has been designated by and is located inside the Ben Davis Youth Sports Association complex at 2250 N Girls School Road on the Westside of Indianapolis.

Over 100 children from the Westside imagined and contributed their ideas for the Playground at Design Day on 5-13-08.  Their dreams are moving toward reality as a one-of-a-kind playground with a great deal of creative play has been designed by Leathers  Associates (www.leathersassociates.com). Since 1971 Leathers’ has designed and overseen playground builds in all 50 states and in 7 countries.   The Playground will have many challenging and fun components that will encompass all skill and activity levels including special needs children.

Fun and safety are important attributes of the playground.  Incorporating the children’s ideas and the history of the Westside, the project will include a racing theme, Noah’s Ark and a sport’s mural.  The “KIDTOPIA” tot lot will include activities sized for smaller children.

The entire area will include a rubber surface for softer landings and to assist special needs children with mobility.  Much of the building material will be a plastic/wood composite that has a longer life span and no splinters. One entry/exit access is intended to enhance children’s safety and parent’s peace of mind.  A wall will divide the playground from the parking lot to prevent kids from darting directly into the path of a car.