Discovering De Soto Playgrounds are incredibly stimulating– with visual, tactful, and auditory aspects. Structures made of plastic, aluminum, metal and galvanized steel wrapped in nylon are the materials used to make these creative slides, climbing structures, swings and spinning formations. Shown are an array of projects created by ABcreative throughout the midwest. Locally, the group was selected by the USD 232 Board of Education through a competitive process as part of the 2018 Bond Issue. All seven USD 232 district elementary school playgrounds were replaced and updated in compliance with the Americans with Disability Act (ADA). The projects were completed in two phases, from 2019-2020. Shown at right are Starside and Praire Ridge Elementary Schools. ABcreative is currently beginning work on the newlyconstructed District Early Childhood Center at Mize Road and 83rd Street. In Western Shawnee, Wilder Bluff Park is currently being constructed and will feature a pond, walking paths and amphitheater. Located at 55th and Belmont Drive, it is expected to open this summer.
S y a l p & t u o Get ltImate p ON the U
photography provided by ABcreative and USD 232/shown below
Locally in De Soto, some of the most creative and innovative playgrounds are created! Area residents, the McNamara’s represent exceptional playground manufacturers, that are the “building blocks” for ABcreative creations.
Consult Create
ABcreative works with public and commercial entities–city municipalities,
schools, and county parks–to create and develop playground projects and park structures. “It is a big responsibility to deliver the very best product you can,” shared Tim McNamara, ABcreative Inc. “Because so much happens on the playground, it is so important to design a playground facility correctly.” The business represents some of the finest manufacturers in the United States and Germany. Last year, over 300 projects were completed. Sales representatives are located in St. Louis, Missouri; Des Moines, Iowa; and locally in De Soto, Kansas. The “family” business began in 1993 by Karen Herren with two manufacturing lines. Karen developed the company in their Olathe basement, while husband Tim was a graphic designer with his Creative Network Agency. They moved to De Soto in 1998. Tim’s business sold in 2007, and he began working with Karen in 2008. His 2-dimension creative design skills transferred well into 3-dimensional playgrounds. Son, Tanner McNamara (DHS graduate, Marine serviceman) joined the staff in 2019 and is transitioning into being the Chief Financial Officer. Karen, as the CEO/President, is transitioning into retirement. “She has built up a wealth of knowledge, lots of relationships in the industry, and a lot of credibility with the manufacturers we represent,” complimented Tim, on his wife’s skills and achievements. Today there are eleven on staff, with a newly-hired playground designer and office manager. ABcreative has been creating play areas for over 25 years! –Rose M. Burgweger, Discovering De Soto Publisher/Editor 6
“We work with you to design outdoor spaces that bring the community together–where all ages and abilities can socialize, have family time, get fit and PLAY in a safe environment.”
–Tim McNamara, ABcreative, Inc.
