St. Paul, Minn. – Today, the House Capital Investment Committee discussed legislation to create an inclusive, safe, and accessible playground in Apple Valley for all children, including those with intellectual, developmental, or physical disabilities.
“All our kids deserve to enjoy Apple Valley’s incredible community parks and outdoor spaces,” said Rep. Robert Bierman (DFL-Apple Valley), author of the legislation. “I’ll continue to advocate for this project and its passage, so kids of all abilities have the opportunity to play and thrive.”
The playground would be funded through a $400,000 grant via the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development to the city of Apple Valley to predesign, design, construct, furnish, and equip an inclusive, safe, and accessible playground planned and designed with community stakeholders. This incorporates equipment and design that is accessible to all no matter their ability including both active and quiet spaces, available auditory and sensory activities, activities of various challenge levels, and both cooperative and independent play opportunities.
The project is supported by Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare, Multicultural Autism Action Network, The Arc Minnesota, The Autism Society of Minnesota, Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities, and Minnesota Autistic Alliance.
The legislation is being considered for possible inclusion to a larger Local Jobs and Projects bill.
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