Sarawak Park Playground Refresh

At the Longest Day of Play (June 2025) pop-up, we introduced the project, showed the above site layout and two playset options, and invited conversation and feedback from park users.

What we heard:

• Strong support for natural design elements (wood textures, earth tones).

• Desire for equipment that appeals to both younger and older kids (2–5 and 5–12).

• Keep accessibility front-and-centre: smooth routes, inclusive swings/transfer points, quiet/sensory play, shaded seating for caregivers.

• Maximize play value by making good use of the space and the rubberized surface.

Sarawak Family Park has seen a number of accessibility improvements in recent years, including new accessible washrooms, an accessible trail, upgrades to the parking lot, EV vehicle chargers, new seating, and a mobi-mat to provide easier access to the beach and water.

The existing playground at the park is a smaller unit with limited accessible features, and while it is surfaced with engineered wood fibre — a surface recognized as accessible — it is not the most inclusive option available. To complement the accessible amenities already in place, the Township is proposing to develop a fully accessible play area.

The new playground would:

• Be specially designed to offer a wide range of play opportunities for children of all abilities.

• Include surfacing upgraded to rubber to support safe and easy access, including for those using wheelchairs or mobility devices.

• Feature a connecting trail, accessible seating, and additional shade tree planting to create a comfortable and inclusive play environment.

• Add a permeable overflow parking area adjacent to the existing lot to support higher levels of use on the busiest days.

This new playground will be designed to meet the highest accessibility standards, with input from the Accessibility Advisory Committee to ensure it meets the needs of the whole community.