NEGAUNEE — The city of Negaunee’s Parks and Recreation Commission discussed the proposed sensory-friendly playground along Ann Street at its Monday night meeting.

Designed to be accessible and enjoyable for people of all ages and abilities, a presentation given by the Community Sensory Park Committee highlighted different proposed accessibility features of the park, including a We-Go-Round merry-go-round that allows access for children with wheeled mobility devices, and a Sensory Tunnel where kids can decompress and refocus in a quieter environment while still engaging in tactile play, among others. A symbol communication board would be acquired locally from Project Jade, an Ishpeming-based nonprofit specializing in providing communication boards to facilities that need them.

Plans of the park also include four feet of fencing surrounding the entire park, concrete adjacent to the parking lot, and a potential dog hitch outside of the park. Dedicated parking spots, a portable bathroom, and picnic tables were also mentioned, all of which would be ADA-compliant.

The park is estimated to cost around $1.16 to $1.17 million, with the most expensive part being the ground material that is designed to be durable, soft, and navigable for wheelchair users. Due to the nature of the ground material, the park would not be open in the winter, as clearing the snow could damage the fabric on the ground. As of now, the Ann Street basketball court will also stay next to the park.

According to the CSPC, the ground material and playground equipment are all Midwest-tested, and there is a long life expectancy for the ground surfacing, as worn out spots can be cut out and replaced without tearing up all of the material.

A motion was passed to move the park onto the next steps for review by the Negaunee Planning Commission.

Abby LaForest can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 548. Her email address is alaforest@miningjournal.net.