Remodeled Inclusive Playground Opens In Highland With Farm, Ag Theme

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — An innovative and inclusive playground in Highland has officially reopened. The 30-year-old playground located at Schooley Mill Park has been revamped to be age-friendly for all users and unique features that accommodate cognitive, communicative, social/emotional and sensory disabilities.

“Inclusion was a priority at every step of this project, from the parking lot to a wheelchair accessible merry-go-round,” said Howard County Executive Calvin Ball at the unveiling of the playground. “This new playground will inspire children of all ages and abilities to stay engaged and active while encouraging healthy social interaction with others.”

The play area closed in November of 2020 for the removal of the old playground and installation of the new accessible structure. The new playground follows a farm and agricultural theme designed to encourage social interaction.

“At this park, we have opportunities ranging from horseback riding to cricket to basketball to tennis,” added Howard County Director of Recreation & Parks A. Raul Delerme. “And with this new farm-themed playground, we included a variety of slides, musical instruments and creative play elements that will excite all that play.”

Playground improvements include a fence that surrounds the entire playground, an augmented and alternative communication board that helps those with limited verbal skills communicate, a custom-designed ramp that allows those in a wheelchair to play on the tractor, sensory panels throughout the playground, musical instruments, a swing with an overheard latch, new benches and improved pathways.

“The Autism Society is thrilled to help welcome another inclusive playground to Howard County. Our thanks to County Executive Ball, Raul Delerme, their teams and others who helped make this a reality,” said Melissa Rosenberg, executive director, Howard County Autism Society. “Creating these kinds of spaces for our children makes inclusive experiences part of their everyday lives, teaching them from a young age to be accepting and inclusive. We hope that spirit stays with them as they grow into adulthood.”

Schooley Mill Park is located at 12975 Hall Shop Road in Highland. Amenities at this park include more than four miles of trails, three ball fields, two basketball courts, a regulation-sized cricket field with two pitches, an indoor facility, four tennis courts, three equestrian rings, the new playground and parking.