RELEASE: Mount Pearl Unveils Smart Accessible Playground

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 13th, 2023 (Mount Pearl, NL) – Today, the City of Mount Pearl unveiled a new Smart Accessible Playground located next to St. David’s Park. The playground is complete with smart technology, improved lighting, and the addition of two new gender-neutral washrooms.

The St. David’s Smart Accessible Playground features an accessible rubber surface, an accessible swing set, an accessible water fountain, and accessible picnic tables. The washroom facility also features an adjustable-height adult change table; the first in any City of Mount Pearl facility.

“This playground is a safe and welcoming space aimed at ensuring residents and visitors of all abilities have the opportunity to play with ease,” said Mayor Dave Aker. “This is yet another step toward making Mount Pearl more accessible and more inclusive for all.”

The playground is home to two playing structures, one for ages 18 months to 5 years, and another for ages 5 years to 12 years. In addition, the playground features the Biba Smart Park Add-on, an application that uses augmented reality games to inspire imaginative play, while tracking important metrics such as peak hours, days of usage, weather impacts, and equipment condition.

“Just another great reason to head down to St. David’s Park. Kudos to the City of Mount Pearl and residents here. This accessible playground will let kids be kids, and make sure no one is left out. A place where everyone is welcome,” said Hon. Seamus O’Regan Jr., Member of Parliament for St. John’s South-Mount Pearl.

“It is important for residents to be able to participate in their communities, and accessible infrastructure is an important aspect of that participation. A Smart Accessible Playground provides the opportunity for engagement in play and outdoor activity for all abilities,” said Hon. John G. Abbott, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure.

The total investment to create the accessible playground and enhance the surrounding greenspace is $897,046 (net of tax rebates) with $151,169 provided from Infrastructure Canada’s Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, $151,124 from the provincial government, and $594,753 invested by the City of Mount Pearl.

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Media Contact:
Brandon Mullins
Marketing & Communications Officer
709-748-1009
bmullins@mountpearl.ca