sponsor of the month

Johnson County Parks & Recreation Department and Independence Park

By Maria Smietana

Inclusive parks with playgrounds that are accessible to special needs kids are popping up in many places, but Independence Park in Johnson County has been quietly serving area residents for 22 years now. Opened in 2000, the 13.5-acre property is home to Indiana’s first all-accessible playground for children with disabilities.

“The park was created with the help of over 200 businesses, civic organizations and individuals,” said former Johnson County Parks and Recreation Superintendent Megan Bowman. “We recently remodeled the playground and added additional parking in 2020.”

The playground area, for kids ages 2-12, was designed with allinclusive components, and for added safety, rubberized surfacing was installed under each component. A large gazebo with benches overlooks the playground area.

Kids who want to interact with other kids can experience the Yalp Sona arch, described by its developers as a “truly inclusive dance and play arch where audioguided games are played in motion.” For visitors with sensory issues, the park has a sensory-friendly music area, in the near future.

Other park features that are great for visitors with mobility challenges include a ¼ mile wheelchair accessible zero grade asphalt trail, a ¾ mile asphalt hiking trail, and a wheelchair accessible basketball court that smaller children can enjoy, too.

A portion of one of the trails features a StoryWalk® installation, where pages from children’s books are displayed in weatherproof frames at intervals along the path. Kids are led from one case to another, taking in the story and pictures as they go. One of many StoryWalk® installations around the country, this one comes courtesy of the Johnson County Public Library and the Center Grove Rotary Club. The books are changed seasonally by the library.

“County parks provide passive recreational opportunities, which allows for the public to enjoy the open greenspace, trails and play areas as they like,” Bowman said. “Since Independence Park is the only greenspace in unincorporated White River Township, it is a very popular park.”

Johnson County Parks and Recreation became a sponsor of Special Needs Living because they support the mission of the magazine, Bowman said. She wants word to get out about Independence Park so that it can be a resource to anyone who might need it.

Bowen further encourages people to reach out and develop a relationship with their local parks department, no matter where they live. “If there is a piece of equipment or change to a facility or amenity that you would like to see, be sure to let them know,” she said. “Feedback is very important to what we do, and it is very helpful to know how our choices might impact others and their lives. We appreciate citizens and organizations that are willing to be a resource for us!”

Independence Park is open daily year-round from dawn to dusk. Three picnic shelters are available for rent. Visitors should be aware that the roadway and walking trails are not maintained in the winter months, and the park is closed during times of heavy snow and ice.

Johnson County Parks and Recreation is still accepting donations to offset the cost of the playground remodel. To learn more or to make a donation, see the contact information below.

Kevin Leonard Superintendent (Interim) kleonard@co.johnson.in.us (812) 526-6809 x:102 www.jocoparks.comFacebook: @jocoind Facebook: @injocoparks

Instagram: @in_jocoparks jocopark@co.johnson.in.us