Parks and Recreation Director Joe Petrella said there is a major need for all-inclusive playground, as the Cape needs more places where children who have disabilities can play and be engaged.
He said he is sure the need will come out with the Master Plan. Petrella said the all-inclusive playground, which is part of the six-year capital plan, is for Lake Meade Park.
Jaycee Park also will have inclusive elements. Cape Coral City Councilmember Jennifer Nelson-Lastra said at the workshop that while it is wonderful that they will have some equipment at Jaycee Park, they need more than just a few pieces.
It is an important piece as our city grows. The city will bring that project management back in house and amend the design to accommodate a 40, to 50,square- foot rec center with a pool. The presentation highlighted the achievements, and goals met from the parks master plan, which had facility needs including a beach, small neighborhood parks and nature parks and program needs for special events, adult fitness, wellness, and programs for 50 and older.
Petrella said they are currently going over evaluation assessments for the value of the park system, as well as seeing if they could obtain sponsor dollars for various amenities and features of a park. Hopefully, the city will get the permits soon and get the construction fully implemented next month, he added. He said the city is in the process of purchasing property east of the location for future expansion of the fields and facilities.
