Pirnie inclusive playground project receives donation from Greater Grand Island Community Foundation

GRAND ISLAND, Neb. -- The Greater Grand Island Community Foundation is boosting fundraising efforts for an inclusive playground. 

The nearly $67,000 dollars will go to the 27-thousand-square-foot facility Pirnie Inclusive playground, a $1.5 million playground that will be constructed at Ryder Park in Grand Island. 

The Greater Grand Island Community Foundation CEO, Melissa DeLaet says that it is a great project for the community of Grand Island and that they liked that it is in the heart of the city.

“I think people in Grand Island are very excited for the playground they are excited for you know improvements to Ryder Park and the tornado hill area, they are excited for the opportunity to have a place where everyone can play and I think it’s going to be  a huge asset to the community," she said. 

The idea came from a Central Community College professor who thought an inclusive park could be beneficial to Grand Island. Bryan Klinginsmith was one of the students involved. 

“We wanted children and adults of all abilities and disabilities to e able to come together and play on a playground without any barriers and access to the playground," he said.

They hoped to finish fundraising this year and start construction next year.