July 21, 2023, ABC 13, Asheville, NC: Asheville set to approve special needs-friendly park with innovative features https://wlos.com/news/local/asheville-set-to-approve-special-needs-friendly-park-with-innovative-features
The city of Asheville is poised to approve a contract for an all-inclusive playground for children. It will be part of Murphy-Oakley Park adjacent to the Murphy-Oakley Community Center and have special features for children with cognitive challenges, including autism.
Providing access for everyone means having a special design.
"Having a rubber surface will allow for wheelchair access onto the playground," Asheville Parks and Recreation Director D. Tyrell McGirt said.
He said there will be a music area, too.
"Part of the playground there will be what we call a calm area," McGirt said.
The park will also have traditional features like slides.
