Vision

Room to run, climb, splash and explore at their own pace.

• Inclusive playgrounds for ages 0–2, 2–5 and 5–12, with a calm, quieter nookScale A
• A seasonal splash pad, if one proves workableScale A/B
• A carousel and a miniature train loopScale B
• A garden maze with paths wide enough for wheelchairs and strollersScale B
• A giant destination playground, only if a larger regional park is justifiedScale C

A few gentle thrills, and real roles to take on.

• A few family rides, such as a small family coaster, a spinning ride or a swing rideScale B
• Youth programs and roles you choose, such as photographer, storyteller, local-history researcher or accessibility testerScale A/B
• From age 16, paid jobs such as ride operator, after the ride maker’s and ASTM F770 training, supervised days and a sign-offScale B

Time outdoors, music on the lawn and something new to learn.

• A walking loop, mown nature trails and boardwalksScale A
• Outdoor fitness stations along the walking loop, for teens, adults and seniorsScale A
• A community garden, greenhouse and volunteer hubScale A/B
• A Discovery Barn about science and local history: the Lehigh River, Moravian heritage, steel and industryScale B

A full day out together that does not drain the budget.

• Picnic groves and shade pavilions, and your own picnic is always welcomeScale A
• A dog agility course added to an existing off-leash area nearby first, before any new oneScale B
• A lending library of wagons, strollers, sun hats and sensory kitsScale A/B
• A food pavilion with an affordable menu and clear ingredient and allergen labelsScale B

Gentle paths, shade, and time with grandchildren.

• Shade and rest benches about every 200–300 feet along accessible pathsEvery scale
• A Lookout Hill reached by a gentle spiral ramp, with no stairs neededScale B
• Plain-language signs, large-print guides and audio guidesEvery scale

Every attraction, restroom, food area and viewing spot on an accessible route.

• Sensory-friendly hours, quiet rooms, sensory maps and loaner headphonesEvery scale
• An adult changing table and family restroomsScale A
• An accessible chariot on the carousel and an accessible car on the trainScale B

An everyday park close to home, with care for the streets around it.

• Free events and programs, such as a summer film night on the lawnScale A
• A community advisory council of youth, seniors, disability advocates, neighbors and schoolsEvery scale
• A stage that faces away from homes, planted buffers, an evening curfew, and low-noise rides in the Family Attraction ParkEvery scale

Ideas from children, teens, parents, grandparents, neighbors and people with disabilities matter most. Tell us who this list leaves out and what they would love to do.