Grand Island, Ne. -- The inclusive playground at Ryder Park in Grand Island is closer to the finish line. 

At Tuesday’s City Council meeting, council members approved the purchase of new equipment for the playground at Ryder Park. The bid was awarded to Creative Sites, LLC of Omaha.

The idea of an inclusive playground started in a Central Community College Occupational Therapy class with students and staff. Ryder Park was chosen because of its location and its access to parking and restrooms. 

The new playground is designed to be handicap accessible and for children with a range of ability levels. 

The playground will be funded by private donations. The equipment cost is $1,236,356, and so far Central Community College Fund has secured a total of $928,434. 

According to Parks and Recreation Director Todd Park, they are confident that they will get the rest of the funding. 

The project is set to start in mid-July of this year and it will take about nine to 12 weeks to be completed.