What is the Kenosha Dream Playground?
One of the best things for kids to do in Kenosha is to play at the Dream Playground. When I tell out of towners about taking a trip to the playground, of
The Kenosha Dream Playground is a 15,000 square foot playground where children with disabilities can safely play with children without disabilities. The playground features a rubber surface, sing sets, and many other accessories for children of all needs.
In this post, I will discuss the Dream Playground in much greater detail. Continue reading to see a list of features, where the park is located, when it was built, and a number of other facts about the project.
Click here for a listing of restaurants near the Dream Playground
Dream Playground Features
Here is a complete list of features included in the Dream Playground. In addition, I will include a brief description of each.
- Rubber surface
- Ramping system
- Liberty Swing
- High-back/ round swings
- Wheelchair accessible merry-go-round
- Monkey bars
- Climbing wall
- Musical instruments
- Braille/ sign language displays
- Tot Spot
- Single entrance
Rubber Surface
While many playgrounds are filled with wood chips, the Dream Playground is covered with a rubber surface. This surface is firm, but forgiving, which makes it safe for kids of all ages and capabilities. In addition, children in wheelchairs will have no trouble navigating the playground
Ramping System
The equipment is connected with a ramping system that makes it easy for children, and adults, to navigate. Other playgrounds only include a step system, which prevents children with special needs from being able to play. The equipment has multiple levels and heights, but all children are able to reach.
Liberty Swing
The Liberty Swing, made in Australia, is a “therapeutic and fund” swing and the “safest and most recognized swing for children and adults in wheelchairs.” You can learn more about the Liberty Swing here.
High Backed/ Round Swings
High backed swings are swings designed for children and adults with special needs. These swings provide “mild to moderate support” while the swing is moving. These swings may include support for the head, neck, and legs.
Round swings, also nest swings, are designed for multiple children to sit/ lay and swing together. These swings can be used by children of all abilities.
Wheelchair Accessible Merry-Go-Round
Wheelchair accessible merry-go-rounds are different than other merry-go-rounds in that there are multiple spaces for children in wheelchairs. These wheelchairs are level with the ground which makes it easy to enter and exit.
Tot Spot
The Dream Playground is broken into two parts: one part for children under 5, and children over. Children under 5, I call the tot spot, is designed so that toddlers don’t miss out on the fun. All of the equipment in the Tot Spot is lowered for easy access.
Single Entrance
One of my favorite features of the Dream Playground is the single entrance. The single entrance was a great idea because the park is large, and it’s easier to keep track of multiple children at the same time. The playground is surrounded by a fence paid for by the community.
In the next section, I will discuss how the Dream became a reality.
Dream Park History
The Dream Park was completed in 2015 by more than 3,000 volunteers from the community. The Dream Project began in 2012 with the help of Kenosha residents and the Kenosha Achievement Center. The Kenosha residents, KAC. and the City of Kenosha planned to install the playground at Petzke Park. In addition to the playground, the City decided to add other improvements to the park and surrounding area.
Over 1 million dollars was raised and contributed to the Dream Playground. Contributions where made by Kenosha residents, local businesses, and the City of Kenosha.
The Dream Playground officially opened on October 10, 2015
Where is the Dream Playground?
The Dream Playground is located in Petzke Park. Petzke Park is located at 2820 14th Avenue Kenosha, Wisconsin 53140. In addition to the Dream Playground, Petzke includes a lacrosse and soccer field.
The easiest way to get to the park is by taking Sheridan Road or 35th Street and turning on 14th Avenue. The park is about one mile from Lake Michigan and includes bathrooms and a picnic area.
When is the Dream Playground Open?
Unless otherwise states, the Dream Playground is open from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm everyday.
Who Should I Call for Questions/ Concerns?
For questions/ concerns regarding the Dream Playground, contact the City of Kenosha. The can be reached by phone at (262) 653-4050.
How is The Dream Playground Different than Other Playgrounds?
The biggest difference between the Dream Playground and others is that it was designed for all children. This playground has something for every child. Other playgrounds do not include Liberty Swings or wheelchair accessible merry-go-around.
Another difference is the playgrounds sponsorship. The playground was donated by citizens, private companies, and public works. Finally, this playground was built from the ground up by members of the community, and the City of Kenosha.
Dream Park Problems
While the park is up and running without issue, the park had to be closed in March 2016. The park was temporarily closed because of a safety hazard involving the rubber floor. The concern involved possible head injuries due to the premature wear of the surface.
The park reopened in November 2016 to the excitement of both children and adults. The playground has remained open since the reopening.
Dream Park Quick facts
- Petzke Park size: 15 Acres
- Dream Playground size: 15,000 square feet
- Address: 2820 14th Ave, Kenosha, 53140
- Fields: Lacrosse, Soccer
- Built: 2015
Conclusion
To conclude, the Dream Playground is a place for kids of all abilities to play. This playground was created with the help of private citizens, local businesses, and the City of Kenosha. While the playground has had some minor issues, it is considered a huge success for the City of Kenosha and its residents.