What used to be a parking lot is now a vibrant space where everyone can play! On Monday, June 9, Scranton City Officials and members of the Scranton Municipal Recreation Authority celebrated the grand opening of the Butterfly Playground at Nay Aug Park. Adorned with whimsical butterfly decorations and themed educational activities, this playground is a fully accessible haven for families of all abilities
The Butterfly Playground boasts a variety of inclusive equipment, including wheelchair-accessible swings, sensory play areas, and interactive panels. These thoughtful features ensure that every child, regardless of physical or sensory abilities, can enjoy the playground to the fullest.
Barry Isett & Associates (Isett) proudly served as the project’s landscape architect and also provided survey, geotechnical, bidding, and construction administration. From platforms built for wheelchairs to soft playing surfaces, Isett took many steps to ensure the area served all. “It may look pretty straightforward as far as just concrete walkway, curb, and some surface and putting in the air equipment, but a lot of safety and ADA compliance goes into something like this,” said Michael Lachman, Isett Landscape Architect and Project Manager for this initiative.
Thom Welby, Vice Chair of the Scranton Municipal Recreation Authority, proudly showed off and described the playground’s accessible features during the ribbon cutting. “We have a merry-go-round that is flush to the ground where the kids or adults can stand or sit. There are also activity panels that allow for activities that are musical or skill-oriented and are things that we don’t see enough of in our playgrounds around here.”
The nearly $400,000 project was funded through a state casino grant, administered by the city, with support from lawmakers and local volunteers. The Butterfly Playground is just the beginning. It marks phase 1 of the “All Inclusive Discovery Corridor,” a visionary project planned for the area behind St. Cats and Dogs of Nay Aug Zoo.
The opening of the playground marks a significant milestone for Scranton, highlighting the city’s efforts to promote accessibility and inclusivity. To learn more about the Butterfly Playground, check out the news coverage from WNEP and WBRE/WYOU.
