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Concept of a Boundless Playground at Depot Park (B)
The state Office of Greenways and Trails (OGT) approached the CRA in 2008 to create a "boundless playground" at Depot Park.
Explanation
The organization Boundless Playgrounds Inc., states on its website that it "partners with local communities to build inclusive playgrounds where children of all abilities can learn and play together" (www.boundless <http://www.boundless>playgrounds.org). The playgrounds are designed for diverse abilities among children. The Felburn Foundation, based in Maryland but with strong ties to Florida, is interested in funding the construction of boundless playgrounds and has partnered with the state Office of Greenways and Trails (OGT) to identify potential projects in Florida. There are currently 18 boundless playgrounds in Florida including Tampa, Orlando, and Ocala.
In July 2008, Mickey Thomason with OGT contacted CRA staff to discuss the possibility of funding a boundless playground at Depot Park. The proposed funding level is $250,000. CRA staff has provided Mr. Thomason with background on the Depot Park site as well as the project schedule. Mr. Thomason made a formal request to the Felburn Foundation in early 2009 to fund a boundless playground at Depot Park. While the request was pending review, the Felburn Foundation evaluated its funding commitments to current projects. According to Mr. Thomason, the current backlog of projects as well as the challenging investment climate contributed to the decision by the Felburn Foundation in August to withdraw funding for the project at this time. Future project funding is possible, Mr. Thomason wrote to CRA staff.
Carol R. Johnson Associates, the park designer, is reviewing the park concept and determining if a playground is still desirable and feasible at the Depot Park site. The programming and master planning stages will be completed in late-November 2009.
Fiscal Note
The Felburn Foundation proposed $250,000 to fund the project; however, a decision was made in August 2009 to not go forward with funding due to the foundation's existing project commitments and challenging investment climate.
Recommendation
The Recreation, Cultural Affairs and Public Works Committee hear a brief staff presentation of the proposed boundless playground at Depot Park.