Arts & Entertainment

Work Set To Begin On Tuscaloosa All-Inclusive Playground

Construction work on the Tuscaloosa All-Inclusive Playground Project is set to begin Tuesday, with a groundbreaking scheduled for Monday.

A rendering of the Tuscaloosa-themed aspects of the Tuscaloosa All-Inclusive Playground Project
A rendering of the Tuscaloosa-themed aspects of the Tuscaloosa All-Inclusive Playground Project (PARA )

TUSCALOOSA, AL. — Work is set to begin Tuesday on the first phase of the Tuscaloosa All-Inclusive Playground Project (TAPP) at Sokol Park, which will aim to provide added offerings for local children, with an emphasis placed on inclusivity for those with special needs and disabilities.

The PARA Foundation will host a small ground-breaking ceremony at the site Monday morning to kick off construction of the three-phased, $3.4 million project.

Phase one of the project, according to its budget, is expected to carry a $1.5 million price tag, which will include a picnic pavilion with accessible restrooms, the parking lot and utilities, playground features and both poured rubber and turf surfacing.

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An aerial rendering of the Tuscaloosa All-Inclusive Playground (Rendering courtesy of PARA)

Tuscaloosa-themed amenities will also be built during phase one, featuring custom pieces that will be designed to resemble Bryant-Denny Stadium, Denny Chimes and the Bama Theatre. The first leg of the TAPP effort will also include a wheelchair whirl, swings with accessible seats, outdoor musical instruments and other offerings.

Several dignitaries and donors will be on hand for the groundbreaking Monday, including Terry Saban of the Nick’s Kids Foundation, Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox, Tuscaloosa County Probate Judge Rob Robertson, Northport Mayor Donna Aaron, Peco Foods President and CEO Mark Hickman and McAbee Construction Vice President Ken Todd.

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