PATERSON, NJ –Mayor Andre Sayegh and the Friends of Paterson Parks unveiled the City’s first inclusive playground at Roberto Clement Park on Friday. This playground incorporates play equipment that addresses various needs including an ADA-complaint swing and multi-user swing that promotes sensory play.

“Children on the spectrum now have a place to play in Paterson,” Sayegh said. “We can declare a victory for all those children who had to go elsewhere, they now don’t have to go anywhere else.”

Some features include elevated areas for those in a wheelchair to make it easier to play with their friends as well as play and music panels on the sides for those who don’t want to climb. The ADA swing, which allows the kids to strap themselves in and still be able to play and enjoy themselves, is one of the more unique features to the playground, rarely seen in a lot of parks.

“We have to rejoice at the work that is being done in every park in the City of Paterson,” Fifth Ward Councilman Luis Velez said. “I know that my residents of the Fifth Ward are going to appreciate this park.”

“This inclusive approach is something I’m so glad to bring to the City of Paterson,” Passaic County Commissioner John Bartlett said. “There are going to be beautiful, warm and sunny days ahead for kids in this neighborhood and across the city.”

The playground was funded by Passaic County Open Space, Farmland, and Historic Preservation Trust Fund, Lowe’s Hometown 100 Grant and Friends of Paterson Parks. This park is the first of its kind, however it’s not the last as Lou Costello Park will become the next inclusive park in Paterson, officials touted.

“I’m really looking forward to seeing so many kids taking advantage of this space and really being able to enjoy what kids everywhere should have,” Business Administrator, Kathleen Long said. “The City is getting great at really maximizing all opportunities for outside funding and it’s translating right into opportunities for the residents.”

Roberto Clemente Park is now open to the public.

Original Article from TapIntoPaterson.