On August 13, 2024, the Inclusive Play Project (IPP) presented to Kingston City Council, advocating for the development of the city's first fully inclusive and accessible playground at Shannon Park. The council unanimously approved $300,000 from the Municipal Capital Reserve Fund to support the project, which has an estimated budget of $1.5 million. This funding will enable the City to initiate and complete civil site works for the playground.
The IPP, a community-led initiative, has already raised close to $200,000 through various fundraising efforts and is actively pursuing additional grants and donations to meet the project's financial goals. The council's approval also included waiving all municipal and special event fees associated with planning and delivering the Inclusive Fun Fair in 2025, further supporting the project's fundraising activities.
This collaboration between the City of Kingston and the Inclusive Play Project reflects a shared commitment to creating inclusive community spaces that cater to children of all abilities. The planned playground at Shannon Park is set to become a destination for families in Kingston and the surrounding areas, promoting inclusivity and accessible play.
