Marquette's Inclusive Playground Transformation: A Community's Commitment to Accessibility

Marquette, Michigan, has long been a hub of community spirit, and the recent revamp of the Kids Cove II playground at Mattson Lower Harbor Park is a testament to the city's dedication to inclusivity and accessibility. Upper Michigan Today's Elizabeth Peterson and Tia Trudgeon delve into the story behind this transformative project, showcasing the collaborative efforts that have brought a fresh, all-inclusive experience to the local children.

Unlocking the Doors to Inclusive Play

Reimagining the Beloved Wooden Playground

The Kids Cove II playground has been a beloved fixture in Marquette's Lower Harbor since 1996, but the time had come for a fresh start. The community recognized the need to create a space that would cater to the diverse needs of all children, ensuring that every young visitor could enjoy the joys of play. With an open, flowing design, the revamped playground aims to provide accessible features that make it inclusive for all.

Collaboration and Community Involvement

The transformation of Kids Cove II was a collaborative effort, spearheaded by the Community Foundation of Marquette County. Barb Coleman and Lynn Hill, representatives of the foundation, worked closely with the city to bring this vision to life. Their dedication to ensuring that the playground would be accessible to children of all abilities was a driving force behind the project.

Designing for Inclusivity

City of Marquette Director of Community Services Jon Swenson and SAIL Accessibility Advocate Jamie Glenn played pivotal roles in the planning and design process. They meticulously considered the needs of children with various physical and cognitive challenges, incorporating features that would cater to their unique requirements. The result is a playground that truly embraces the concept of inclusive play, providing a welcoming and engaging environment for all.

Celebrating the Grand Opening

The grand opening of the revamped Kids Cove II playground is set to take place on Monday, October 14th, at 5:30 pm, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. This momentous occasion will mark the culmination of the community's efforts and the realization of their vision for an inclusive, accessible space where children can thrive and create lasting memories.

Expanding the Reach: Queen City Running Co.

In a parallel story, Upper Michigan Today's Elizabeth Peterson and Tia Trudgeon also visited Queen City Running Co., a local business that shares the community's passion for inclusivity and accessibility. They sat down with the new co-owner, Paige Du Bois, to discuss her dedication to the running community and the importance of finding the right pair of shoes.

Empowering the Running Community

Paige Du Bois, the co-owner of Queen City Running Co., exudes a contagious enthusiasm for the sport of running and the community it fosters. She understands the significance of providing the right footwear to runners, ensuring that each individual can find the perfect fit and maximize their performance and enjoyment.

Upcoming Running Events

Queen City Running Co. is not just a retail space; it's a hub for the local running community. Paige Du Bois shared information about upcoming events and opportunities for runners of all skill levels to come together, whether it's for a casual jog or a competitive race. These events aim to bring the community closer and inspire more people to embrace the joy of running.To learn more about the Community Foundation of Marquette County and their initiatives, visit their website. For information about Queen City Running Co. and their upcoming events, be sure to check their online presence. Upper Michigan Today will continue to be your source for the latest news and stories that showcase the vibrant spirit of the Marquette community.