HOWARD, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – A new project that is designed to be a place for everyone to enjoy is already becoming popular.
After months of waiting, the brand new inclusive playground at Brown County’s Pamperin Park is officially open for business.
“It’s an exciting day, as you know,” said Brown County Parks Director Matt Kriese. “Out with that old chapter and in with a new chapter.”
Kriese says after 23 years, the old wooden playground was too hard to maintain and needed to be replaced. The new site features 17,000-square feet of play space.
“We have poured in place rubber through a good portion of it. And that encompasses the 2- to 5-year-old area. And then we also have the 5 to 12 play area over in the wood chips.”
There’s a 14-foot tall tower with multiple slides safely spiraling down to earth. There’s an inclusive merry-go-round, and that’s not all.
“There is a zip line. There’s a dragon rider, a large swing bay, which we know everybody loves, including adults,” said Kriese.
The project used $434,000 of Brown County sales tax money, as well as a contribution from Green Bay Packaging’s George Kress Foundation. Michelle Hansen is the group’s president.
“I feel like this is a great place for the kids to play. It’s all-inclusive. So, you can get those with special needs. Even grandparents can help their young ones on the play equipment.”
So, what do the people think?
Dan Klewer and his family tested the grounds on Wednesday morning.
“It’s definitely a totally different feel to the old one for sure,” said Klewer. “A lot of different stuff to try out.”
His 6-year old daughter, Miriam Klewer, agrees.
“I really like it,” she said. “Because it’s good for everyone to enjoy, and everyone should be here — can play in the lovely weather today.”
What’s her favorite part?
“Everything,” Miriam said.
The Pamperin Park Inclusive Playground is open daily from 8 a.m. until sunset.
