In their latest piece for Irvine Weekly, staff writer Evan J. Lancaster reports that $2.8 million in state funding has been set aside for the development of a universal playground at Sweet Shade Neighborhood Park. Presented to the City of Irvine by Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris at a Tuesday, October 25, 2022 meeting, the funds will allow for the first park of its kind to be available in Irvine. According to Lancaster’s report, Sweet Shade Neighborhood Park will be designed with multigenerational play components, along with adaptive access activities to support individuals with disabilities. The playground will also feature a sensory garden, an adaptive swing and will be wheelchair accessible.
“Ensuring Irvine is an inclusive city that offers all residents access to equitable services and opportunities is a top priority for me and the City Council,” Irvine Mayor Farrah Khan said. “The universal playground will be the first of its kind in Irvine and will support our existing efforts to provide services for individuals with sensory, physical, or cognitive disabilities, and their family members. I am grateful for the support from Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris for this partnership in providing this remarkable resource.”
