8 Domains of Livability Case Study Grandparents Park Wichita Kansas
8 Domains of Livability Case Study, Grandparents Park, Wichita, Kansas AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities
"For people to get together and feel included as part of their community, they need a place where they can see one another," says Andrea Bozarth, associate state director of community outreach. "A park is a perfect location for gathering, socializing and being healthy." The city of Wichita agreed to convert the empty lots, which were eyesores the city was spending money to maintain, into a half-acre public park. (The lot size is 0.56 acres, which measures out as 280 feet by 100 feet.) In the first year of the project, the city added landscaping, a fence, sidewalks, walking trails and outdoor exercise equipment that is specifically designed for older adults. Year 2 brought playground equipment for preschoolers, park benches and the unveiling of the Grandparents Park sign. A drinking fountain was installed during the park's third year.
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Building a Playground for All Ages
Safe accessible outdoor spaces help people of all ages socialize and stay healthy
Grandparents Park Wichita Kansas United States
Photo by Jacque Waite Grandchildren strike a pose on the opening day of the Grandparents Park in Wichita, Kansas. Built on two empty, adjacent, city-owned lots in a residential area of Wichita, the Grandparents Park opened for family fun in July 2013 — all because a community assessment, conducted as part of Wichita's then-membership in the , identified that local residents really wanted and would benefit from having such an outdoor space.The Details
During the assessment, which was conducted by and the , many residents shared that they were the daytime caregivers of their grandchildren. They spoke about not having a place to walk or play in their neighborhood, other than on old sidewalks in various states of repair. They wished they had easy access to a safe and attractive place where they could spend time outdoors with their grandchildren, get some exercise and socialize with other adults.The Eight Domains
The is an example of work being done in: As well as in:"For people to get together and feel included as part of their community, they need a place where they can see one another," says Andrea Bozarth, associate state director of community outreach. "A park is a perfect location for gathering, socializing and being healthy." The city of Wichita agreed to convert the empty lots, which were eyesores the city was spending money to maintain, into a half-acre public park. (The lot size is 0.56 acres, which measures out as 280 feet by 100 feet.) In the first year of the project, the city added landscaping, a fence, sidewalks, walking trails and outdoor exercise equipment that is specifically designed for older adults. Year 2 brought playground equipment for preschoolers, park benches and the unveiling of the Grandparents Park sign. A drinking fountain was installed during the park's third year.
The Costs
The city provided the lots and maintains the park at no cost. Installation of the trails, exercise equipment, drinking fountain, benches, signage and fencing cost about $22,000 and were paid for by AARP Kansas, which funded the project as part of its livable communities work in Wichita. Local businesses contributed money or in-kind goods.The Results
Grandparents Park is easily accessible from all parts of the neighborhood by foot, bicycle, stroller or car. In addition to being a place for free play, relaxation and exercise, the park is used for organized special events and activities, such as educational workshops and a multi-week walking program organized by AARP Kansas. The uniqueness of the park has resulted in positive attention from the , , , , , among others.Related Resources
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AARP Members: For questions about your benefits, AARP The Magazine or the AARP Bulletin, visit the page or call 1-888-OUR-AARP (1-888-687-2277). Cancel You are leaving AARP.org and going to the website of our trusted provider. The provider’s terms, conditions and policies apply. Please return to AARP.org to learn more about other benefits. Your email address is now confirmed. You'll start receiving the latest news, benefits, events, and programs related to AARP's mission to empower people to choose how they live as they age. You can also by updating your account at anytime. You will be asked to register or log in. Cancel Offer Details Disclosures