Community Sensory Park Committee Members Appointed

City Manager Nate Heffron is announcing the appointment of five-members to the newly established Community Sensory Park Committee. The committee will assist in the development of a sensory park within Negaunee’s existing parks system.

A sensory park focuses on features that engage multiple senses of an individual. These are specialized parks for all kinds of visitors with special emphasis on children with disabilities.

“The idea of making one of our older parks into a sensory park came from a public meeting concerning the new playground we are building this year. Some parents wanted to make sure that their children’s needs were taken into consideration when building the park”, Heffron said

According to Heffron the new playground would meet most needs but not all. “I felt that we needed a different approach in meeting the missed needs of these children. Instead of trying to just wedge in a few elements here there, we needed something totally different,” Heffron said.

According to many children developmental organizations the benefits of sensory play can help to build nerve connections in the brain; encourages the development of motor skills; supports language development; encourages 'scientific thinking' and problem solving, and involves mindful activities which are beneficial for all children.

The committee is charged with researching sensory parks and their functions; reviewing the playground equipment located at the Ann Street Park and recommend appropriate sensory park replacements; engage with SAIL, Disability Network of the U.P to assist in the design of a sensory park; hold no less than two (2) public hearings to obtain public feedback; and provide a written report with findings to the City Council.

Heffron has appointed the following members to the committee: Arica Altobello, Melissa Sikora, Lori Waters, Sarah Webster, and Amber Monroe.

According to Heffron the city received ten applications. Those applicants not chosen are encouraged to participate with the committee.

“As stated during the dedication of the Jim Thomas Pavilion last year. Negaunee will begin to mark a new and aggressive era of investment in the public parks. This not only includes new parks, but our neighborhood parks as well. This park is just the beginning”, Heffron said.

Questions concerning this release may be directed to the attention of the City Manager, Nate Heffron at (906) 475-7700 ext. 11.