ADA-Compliant Playground for an Elementary School in Durham, NC

Ultimate Recreations
Jan 28
2 min read

Creating an Inclusive Playground for All Students

At Ultimate Recreation, we believe every child deserves a safe, accessible, and fun place to play. When an elementary school in Durham, NC, approached us to build an ADA-compliant playground, we were excited to help create an inclusive space for all of their students.

Grading for Accessibility

To ensure the playground met ADA compliance, we focused on accessibility from the start. We graded the area around the sidewalk to make the surface flush with the existing sidewalk. This seamless transition allows children of all abilities, including those using mobility devices, to easily access the playground.

An ADA-Compliant Playground Unit

The playground unit itself was designed to meet ADA standards, including:

A ramp entrance: This feature allows all children, regardless of mobility, to easily access and enjoy the unit.
Inclusive design: The structure encourages all children to engage in play together, fostering a sense of community.

Engaging Free-Standing Play Pieces

To promote different types of play and engagement, the school requested several free-standing play pieces. These additional elements encourage creativity, physical activity, and social interaction, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Keeping Cool with Built-In Shade Structures

The playground unit includes two built-in shades:

One over the main deck area.
One on the side of the unit.

These shades help keep the play area cool and comfortable, even on hot days, ensuring that children can play safely year-round.

Benches for Staff and Supervisors

To support teachers and staff, we installed benches on either side of the playground, providing a comfortable place to supervise children and ensure their safety.

A Playground Designed for Everyone

This project in Durham, NC, showcases our commitment to creating accessible, inclusive spaces that meet the needs of all children. By incorporating ADA-compliant features, thoughtful grading, engaging play options, and practical amenities, we delivered a playground that will benefit the school community for years to come.