Mangano, Let All The Children Play Break Ground For Accessible Park And Playground

After years of planning a new playground promoting interaction for children with disabilities and able-bodied children becomes a reality

Nassau County Executive Ed Mangano today joined with NYS Assemblyman Harvey Weisenberg and Let All The Children Play (LATCP) Executive Director David Weingarten to break ground on a two-acre universally accessible park and playground at Eisenhower Park.

This site, in addition to future planned inclusive programs, will provide recreation and out of school opportunities for all children, particularly those with autism, physical, cognitive, developmental and intellectual disabilities.

“You will have to look long and hard to find a better example of a successful public-private partnership that works for the greater good of the community,” said Mangano. “I am very proud of all of the organizations and officials who have come together to finally make this park a reality.”

Funding for the $1.3 million project is largely financed through the Nassau County Environmental Bond Act of 2006, along with an sponsored NYS CCPA grant sponsored by Assemblyman Weisenberg, NYS Parks and Recreation EPF grant and LATCP donations.

“This park will enhance the quality of life and promote family here in Nassau County,” said Weisenberg, a well-known champion of people with disabilities. “No child should have barriers that stop them from being a child.”

The site offers a broad range of inclusive play opportunities and challenges for all children and family members, including adapted structures, swings, ramps and overall accessible environment.

“All children should be provided with play environments that engage their imaginations,” said LATCP Executive Director David Weingarten. “We need this playground in order to break down barriers, not only in playgrounds, but in the way people think, so that inclusion of all children is a priority, not an after thought.”

LATCP aims to make an even greater impact by breaking down barriers for children with disabilities, creating social change and helping to improve the lives of all children and members of the community. By leveraging the fun, inclusive, and team building nature of play, LATCP will also create inclusive programs to take place at the playground building on it’s organizations core values: Inclusion, Community, Education and Health.

For more information on Let All The Children Play, please visit our website at www.latcp.org or call 516/569.0648 and for more information about the Parks Department, visit www.nassaucountyny.gov/parks or call 516/572.0200.