Construction has officially begun on a new inclusive playground at Shannon Park in Kingston, designed to provide a play space for children of all physical and sensory abilities.
The groundbreaking ceremony took place on April 14, 2026, at 199 Wilson St. While rain forced the event inside to the nearby Rideau Heights Community Centre, the occasion marked a significant step in addressing a local gap in accessible facilities. Currently, many Kingston families with children who have special needs must travel up to two hours to find playgrounds that meet their requirements.
The Inclusive Play Project, a grassroots group founded by pediatric occupational therapist Rachel Doornekamp, spearheaded the initiative. The project earned formal support from the City of Kingston in September 2023. The new site was chosen for its existing accessible equipment and proximity to the community centre, which holds a high accessibility certification.
The $1.5-million project features rubber safety surfacing, ramped play structures for wheelchair users, sensory-friendly elements, and a fenced area with seating and shade. Funding is supported by the City, the federal government’s Enabling Accessibility Fund, and Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities, which has entered a 15-year naming rights agreement.
With fundraising currently at 92% of the project’s budget, organizers are turning to the community to bridge the final gap. A Tim Hortons Smile Cookie campaign is set to run from April 27 to May 3, 2026, with proceeds dedicated to the playground construction.
