Jumpstart Inclusive Playground Opens August 12

The City of St. John’s and Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities (Jumpstart) are proud to announce the opening of the Jumpstart Inclusive Playground at Mundy Pond Park to the public on Friday, August 12. At over 11,000 square feet, it is the largest inclusive play space in St. John’s welcoming kids of all abilities to join in the magic of play.

“I am thrilled to see the opening of the new accessible and inclusive playground, right here in centre city,” said Mayor Danny Breen. “This beautiful playground will be a great asset to the community to provide children of all abilities with more opportunities to play together side-by-side.”

The new play space was built using universal design principles and with input from the City’s Inclusion Advisory Committee. From double-wide ramps to barrier and transfer-free equipment, it is thoughtfully designed to accommodate physical, cognitive, and sensory disabilities.

Some of the unique features include:

• Poured-in-place rubber surfacing allowing for a barrier-free transition from pathways to play area
• A collection of musical instruments providing auditory stimulation
• We-Saw: An updated version of a seesaw designed for ease of use for kids of all abilities
• We-Go-Round™: A merry-go-round designed so that children using mobility devices can wheel right in
• Cozy Dome: A special climber and get away place for children who want a break from all the sights and sounds of the playground.
  

The Jumpstart playground is located adjacent to other facilities including a softball field, skate park, dog park, soccer pitch, and the new community centre that is planned to open in Fall 2023 replacing the H.G.R. Mews Community Centre. The opening of this playground has enhanced the park as a destination for recreation by providing imaginative and accessible spaces where kids can participate in recreational opportunities.

“Through play, kids have the opportunity to develop valuable life skills such as teamwork, confidence and creativity,” said Marco Di Buono, Chief Operating Officer, Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities. “We are proud to partner with the City of St. John’s to bring the power of inclusive play to Mundy Pond Park.”

The playground equipment and rubber surfacing, valued at approximately $1 million, was funded by Jumpstart with the generous support of Tim Price and Family, who have donated to the national efforts of Jumpstart’s Inclusive Play Project. The City of St. John’s provided the land to build the playground and covered the costs associated with site preparation.

“I would like to thank Jumpstart for the gift of the inclusive and accessible playground,” said Ward 3 Councillor Jamie Korab. “This playground will provide residents more opportunities to connect with one another, fostering a stronger, more inclusive, and a healthier community.”