Inclusive playground may be coming to Hedges-Boyer Park

Tiffin, Ohio — The City of Tiffin could be installing its first inclusive playground at Hedges-Boyer Park, replacing aging equipment and improving the recreation opportunities for families visiting and living in Tiffin and Seneca County.

During a Tiffin City Council meeting Tuesday, Tiffin Parks Director Bryce Kuhn and Recreational Operations Manager Mason Correll presented the specifics of the project.

As well as two new playsets, equipment includes new swings, a zip line, jungle gym, shaded benches and tables and more. Council will vote to approve funds for the project at a later meeting. If approved, the new playground could be installed this fall.

“There are many communities in Ohio that are bringing park equipment like this online, which benefits everyone, regardless of ability level. I hope that we can make this playground a reality and further enhance our options to our residents and visitors,” Kuhn said.

Inclusive play systems are designed to allow all people to participate in play, regardless of age or ability, and to prove that play has no limit. The playground equipment at Hedges-Boyer Park was first installed in 2002, and much of it has exceeded its estimated 15-year lifespan. Some of the newest and best conditioned equipment from Hedges-Boyer is to be transferred Beechwood Park.

This project was made possible through funds granted to the City of Tiffin through the American Rescue Plan Act. Future improvements are being considered, and other grant opportunities are being sought. Additionally, the City of Tiffin also plans to upgrade playground equipment at Nature Trails Park, using funds that already were designated for that project.

Tiffin Mayor Aaron Montz said, “This is a great addition to the quality of life in Tiffin, and I’m in full support of this project moving forward. Bryce and his team at the Parks Department have come up with a unique plan that will benefit the entire community while making Tiffin a destination for families.”

In addition to the new playground, Kuhn also announced that plans are in place for free Wi-Fi to be made available at Hedges-Boyer Park through a partnership with another local entity. The City of Tiffin is contracting with local telecommunications provider Bascom Communications for the service.