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September 21 was an exciting day in Tuscaloosa as Mayor Maddox, Terry Saban of Nick’s Kids Foundation, and representatives from other community partners broke ground on the Tuscaloosa All-Inclusive Playground Project at Sokol Park. The All-Inclusive Playground, which will be the largest of its kind in Alabama, will create opportunities for children and families of all ages and abilities to play together.
Elevate Tuscaloosa contributed $500,000 to the first phase of this project, which is known as the “University Phase” because it will include play structures modeled after the University of Alabama’s Denny Chimes, the Quad, and Bryant-Denny Stadium. This phase will also include a picnic pavilion with accessible restrooms, and the parking lot for the playground.
At the groundbreaking Mayor Maddox expressed how thrilled the City of Tuscaloosa is to be a part of the project through Elevate. “I think it speaks volumes about the core convictions that we have in all of us, making sure that everyone benefits, everyone has an opportunity,” the Mayor said. “This playground is symbolic of that.”
Terry Saban said “I feel so happy, so elated, that we are coming together with PARA and the individual community leaders to create something that everyone can enjoy, children and adults of all abilities.” The Saban family, who have an established history of support of children in Tuscaloosa, are also the title sponsors of the Elevate project The Saban Center.
In addition to bringing together Tuscaloosa’s children and families to play together regardless of age or ability, the All-Inclusive Playground is expected to attract visitors to the area. The PARA Foundation is currently fundraising for the next phases of the project. Anyone wishing to make a donation can do so at www.playtuscaloosa.com.
