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Planning Your Playground

Planning a commercial playground project is a comprehensive process that involves several critical steps, each ensuring the creation of a safe, engaging, and durable play space that meets the needs of its intended users. Below is a detailed overview of the typical steps involved in planning a commercial playground project. These steps require careful consideration and collaboration among stakeholders, designers, and the community to ensure the success of the commercial playground project.

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This all may seem overwhelming, but don't let it be. Your WannaThrive playground consultant can help guide you through the process. We've also made several other resources available to help inform and equip you to tackle your playground project.

Brainstorming

01

Needs Assessment &
Goal Setting

  • Identify User Needs: Understand the age range, abilities, and interests of the children who will be using the playground.

  • Community Input: Engage with the community, including parents, children, and local organizations, to gather input on desired features and design elements.

  • Define Objectives: Set clear goals for the playground project, such as promoting inclusive play, improving physical health, or enhancing social interaction.

02

Site Analysis & Selection

  • Evaluate Potential Sites: Assess multiple locations for accessibility, environmental impact, safety, and space requirements.

  • Site Specifics: Examine the selected site for soil type, drainage, sun exposure, and existing structures or vegetation.

  • Accessibility: Ensure the site is accessible to all users, including those with disabilities, following ADA guidelines.

Surveyor on Construction Site
Statistic calculating

03

Budget Planning

  • Cost Estimation: Estimate costs for equipment, surfacing, installation, and maintenance. Consider long-term expenses to ensure sustainability.

  • Funding and Grants: Explore various funding options, including grants, sponsorships, and fundraising events, to support the project budget.

04

Design & Customization

  • Design Principles: Focus on safety, durability, aesthetics, and play value. Ensure the design encourages physical, cognitive, social, and sensory development.

  • Customization: Tailor the playground to reflect the community's character and meet the users' needs. This may involve theme-based designs or incorporating natural elements.

  • Equipment Selection: Choose play equipment that caters to different age groups and abilities. Include a mix of play structures, interactive elements, and quiet spaces.

Architect Designing Plans
Accessible Ramp

05

Safety & Compliance

  • Safety Standards: Adhere to national and international safety standards and guidelines for playground equipment and surfacing.

  • Risk Assessment: Conduct a thorough risk assessment to identify and mitigate potential hazards.

  • Accessibility Compliance: Ensure the design complies with ADA standards, providing inclusive play opportunities for children of all abilities.

06

Community Engagement & Approval

  • Present Design: Share the playground design with the community for feedback and suggestions.

  • Approval Process: Navigate through the necessary local government or regulatory body approvals and permits.

Presentation
Architect on Building Site

07

Preparation & Construction

  • Site Preparation: Prepare the site by clearing, grading, and ensuring proper drainage.

  • Installation: Professional installation of playground equipment and safety surfacing according to the manufacturer’s instructions and safety standards.

  • Inspection: Conduct thorough inspections during and after installation to ensure compliance with design specifications and safety standards.

08

Maintenance & Sustainability Plan

  • Maintenance Plan: Develop a detailed maintenance plan to ensure the playground remains safe, clean, and attractive over time.

  • Sustainability Practices: Implement practices to ensure the playground's long-term sustainability, such as using eco-friendly materials and designs that require minimal maintenance.

Tool Belt
Kids at Playground

09

Grand Opening & Beyond

  • Launch Event: Organize a grand opening event to celebrate the completion of the playground and promote community engagement.

  • Ongoing Evaluation: Regularly assess the playground's condition, usage, and user satisfaction to identify opportunities for improvement or expansion.

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