Landscape Information
Located in a gated portion of Flushing Meadows Corona Park along Corona Avenue and southeast of the Queens Zoo, this playground was the first of its kind in the country and served as a model for similar sites throughout the city, the country, and the world. Designed by Hisham N. Ashkouri and James Charniky with the Playground Corporation of America beginning in 1976, this playground was designed to accommodate both disabled and able-bodied children. The design includes accommodations for children ages three to twelve who utilize crutches, canes, walkers, or wheelchairs, and includes many opportunities for social, cognitive, and motor activity. It was constructed between 1980 and 1984, and used a number of sources of federal community development funding, including the Land and Water Conservation Fund.
The playground is organized around a central play fountain and geometric shade screens, which create a unique central hub for events and programming that appeal to disabled and able-bodied children alike, and foster connections between the two. Colorful play equipment is accessed via stair-free, blind-friendly textured paths and handrails that can be reached by children using crutches or wheelchairs, and includes a twelve-foot-long suspension bridge, slides, and body-length swings. Basketball courts with adjustable hoops are surrounded by bleachers, benches, and shaded picnic tables. In 1993, new swings and play equipment were installed with safety surfacing, and in 2006, a sensory garden was introduced. Other facilities include an interpretative nature trail with plaques in both English and Braille, game tables, and a play section with a school bus, fire truck, fire station, house, and schoolhouse. Musical elements are integrated throughout to further enhance the experience for all.
