Establishment of Community Sensory Park Committee
City Manager Nate Heffron is announcing the establishment of Community Sensory Park Committee that will assist in the development of a sensory park within Negaunee 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 a 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.
“By working towards the construction of a sensory park we are providing for those children that may not often be thought of when it comes to public recreation. Instead of building the same types of playgrounds around the city or just simply replacing aged structures, we are thoughtfully working toward inclusion”, Heffron said.
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.
“My hope is that parents or other family members that have children in their lives with disabilities can serve on this committee and help guide us, they would know best,” Heffron stated.
The committee will consist of five members at large, must be at least 18-years of aged, and must live within the city limits of Negaunee. Those that are interested in serving on this committee may obtain an application from city hall or by clicking this link. All Applications are due by March 11, 2022 at 4 pm.
Questions concerning this release may be directed to the attention of the City Manager, Nate Heffron at (906) 475-7700 ext. 11.