What began three years ago with a vision to make the playground at Holding Park on West Owen Avenue more inclusive for those with special needs will be realized within the next few months.
Following a series of focus groups, working directly and diligently with families to determine the best way to move forward, under the leadership of Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources (PRCR) Specialized Program & Inclusion Specialist Olivia Atkinson, PRCR Director Ruben Wall, and Maintenance Manager Randy Hoyle, plans were developed in cooperation with Barrs Recreation in Pittsboro.
"All parks should be inclusive," said Ruben Wall. "I can't wait to see people of all ages and abilities enjoying this playground. We looked at every aspect to make it as user-friendly as we can."
As one of only very few such places in the area, Wall said more towns are taking this approach to allow all kids to play together.
At an estimated cost of $1M, the playground project is supported by a U.S. Treasury grant to the Town of Wake Forest as part of the American Rescue Plan / Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Award, totaling $14.5M.
In addition to the new and improved 11,000-square-foot playground, the five-acre Holding Park includes the Wake Forest Community House, Holding Park Aquatic Center, picnic tables, charcoal grills, and a basketball court. With plenty of parking already available, six additional handicapped spaces will be added to the adjacent Southeastern Seminary parking lot.
Upon completion, the new playground will feature fully ramped structures that offer ease of access for people of all mobility ranges; multiple sensory experiences including play panels, rockers, swings, spinners, slides, and balance challenges; seating and shade for parent relaxation; play ensemble outdoor musical equipment; and a “serenity spot,” or fort-like environment, with a variety of activities.
Barrs Recreation broke ground and began building the playground in early July. While initially estimated to take 10-12 weeks, they ran into some challenges. In addition to numerous summer rain storms, which poured several inches of water into the bowl-shaped acreage, construction crews encountered some previously undiscovered rock and metal.
On a positive note, they also found an old horseshoe, which owner Carolynne Barrs suggests bodes well for the project – good luck for the future despite the delays. Weather permitting, the work is expected to be completed by December.
"We're crossing our fingers and hoping that the rain holds off," Barrs said.
Holding Park was named for Dr. Solomon Pace Holding (1871-1951) a Wake Forest physician and his wife, Eva Dunn, who donated the land. Developed in stages, the Community House was built from 1938-42. The funds for the building came from President Franklin Roosevelt’s Works Progress Administration.
The original 1940s swimming pool was reconfigured in the 1970s and replaced by the Holding Park Aquatic Center in 2017. The large stone retaining wall and stairs on the south side of the pool are the original 1940s diving board platform. A building used during World War II to machine parts for Army tanks was located where the former playground was installed in 2001.
"Throughout its history, the Town has made the best possible use of this space and its resources to serve local citizens," said Jason Cannon, President of the Wake Forest Business & Industry Partnership (WFBIP). "We are excited for the enhanced quality of life this playground will provide for all Wake Forest residents and visitors from near and far."
