LEXINGTON PARK, Md. – Since 2001, John G. Lancaster Park has been a “premier accessible playground” for the children of Lexington Park. Excitement is building up, as renovations are being done to help modernize the beloved playground.
The new playground will feature the following:
- four (4) types of swings
- playhouse
- music station
- multiple slides and climbers
- overhead ladders
- balance activities and spinners
This new playground is being constructed on the original footprint which totals 8,150 sf. The surfacing throughout the playground is Rainbow Turf which is a rubber safety surface.
The new playground will also feature many accessible features for children with disabilities. The new park will feature:
- raised play structures are ramped
- several types of accessible swings
- two specialized types of equipment (Aeroglider and Accessible Whirl) that are designed specifically for children that use adaptive equipment
- cozy cocoon that provides an area for quiet time.
Boundary fencing will also be installed on the 2-5-year-old section, adding safety to the site.
“The Department has adopted a 20-year replacement plan for all playgrounds. The park property is owned by the United States Navy and leased by the County. The current lease amendment was approved by the Navy, effective July 1, 2023, which allowed for the playground replacement project to begin,” Arthur Shepherd, the Director of St. Mary’s County Recreation and Parks, told The BayNet.
“Most manufacturers state the lifespan can be 15-20 years with proper maintenance as the old equipment may not meet the most current safety standards. This premiere accessible playground located at the popular and busy Lancaster Park will provide a safe and enjoyable play experience for children of ALL abilities for the next 20 years.”
The new playground is scheduled to reopen on or around November 17, 2023.
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I hope they put a sharps box for all the hypodermic needles this new playground will bring in…