FINDLAY - A playground designed especially for children with disabilities went up with the help of community volunteers over the weekend at River Landings Park.

Although the play equipment is adapted for the disabled, “Parents and grandparents will have fun there too,” said Tim Brugeman, director of the Hancock Park District. “It's for all kids, with all abilities, and kids of all ages like us.”

The $20,000 project was prompted in part by recreation therapy students at the nearby University of Findlay. Parents of children with disabilities also helped plan the playground, which will include 20 activities ranging from traditional features like swings and slides to “play panels” that challenge youngsters' educational and physical fitness skills.

Mr. Brugeman said some of the UF students, including one who interned with the park district last summer, identified the need for more play equipment adapted for disabled children, especially in the area of the city north of the Blanchard River.

“We felt we had a site we could give over for this if they would want to help raise the rest of the money,” he said. “It began well over a year ago.”

Last year, park commissioners approved the site on Fox Street at the trailhead for the new Blanchard River Greenway Trails, the Handlebar Hollow Mountain Bike Trail, and the overlook at Howard Run.

“It's a nice, beautiful natural area along the Blanchard River with grills and picnic tables,” Mr. Brugeman said. “Now there will be a playground which will complement the picnic area.”

Through the Hancock County commissioners, the park district obtained a community development block grant, and more funds were provided by the Aid Association of Lutherans, the Lutheran Brotherhood, and the park district.

Mr. Brugeman said there are other adaptive playgrounds in the county, including the $200,000 Fort Findlay playground built by volunteers last spring at Emory Adams Park on the city's south side.

However, the playground at River Landings will give north side residents another option. It's expected to open in June.

“It's not a very big thing, but it's really going to be nice,” he said.

First Published May 13, 2002, 11:51 a.m.