By Michele Owen—
MUNCIE, IN—On November 1, Muncie Board of Works approved an investment in new playground equipment for three City parks: Gilbert, McCulloch, and Cowing. The City will be receiving a matching Playground Grant from Game Time, which will provide play structures for the Gilbert, Cowing Park, and Whitely neighborhoods.
JoAnna Darda, a member of the Gilbert Neighborhood Association, confirmed that the neighborhood will also be contributing some of their ARP funds to the park project. “The park is really a focal point for our neighborhood…not everyone has a backyard,” commented Darda. “We are so excited.”
The proposed equipment for McCulloch Park will include a swingset, several slides, and a large play structure complete with an ADA accessible ramp and wheelchair-friendly structures. Parks Department superintendent Carl Malone stated at the Board of Works meeting that ADA accessibility was a focus for 2024. “We are currently working with Game Time and with Sinclair Recreation and our Parks Department to make sure we have ADA walkways and entryways put in at each playground,” remarked Malone.
The McCulloch playground will be close to the newly renovated Gainbridge Field, which has been busy this summer with baseball and softball games and programs. Cowing Park will also receive a swingset and a play structure.
Michele Owen is Communications Director for the City of Muncie
