Written by: Emily Joswiak • November 11, 2021• Outdoors

Guide to Building a Public Park in Your Neighborhood

Public parks are a great way to strengthen community wherever you are. Check out this brief guide on how to build a public park in your neighborhood.

Character builds community. Therefore, use this opportunity to spice up your neighborhood with different events or block parties. It may also help to build a public park. In fact, public parks are great ways to build a community for everyone. Read this guide to building a public park in your neighborhood to see how.

Location

The first step in this guide is location. Location matters greatly in proper public park design. There are three factors you must consider: accessibility, character, and safety. Accessibility relates to how residents will access it, whether or not it’s handicap accessible, and its inclusivity. Character and safety relate to the area around it. Does the park sit near a historic landmark? Perhaps the community has a rich history that helps strengthen the park’s purpose. Most importantly, the park must be within a safe, low-crime area.

Building Materials

The next question you should ask yourself is: what materials will construct the park? Traditionally, wood is the main resource. It’s economical, sturdy, durable, and versatile. However, wood poses serious safety risks. Children get splinters if left in an untreated park. Fortunately, newer materials, such as HDPE fencing, offer the same characteristics as traditional wood without the risk of splintering or cracking. This way, your public park is a safe, welcoming environment for everyone without risk of injury.

Equipment

Playground equipment is for all to enjoy, but don’t forget the primary visitors: children. Be sure to include park equipment designed for all age groups, from toddlers to teenagers. Play panels, bridges, climbers, crawl tubes, decks, ramps, slides, and transfer steps are great pieces for every park. While these may target mostly younger children, gazebos, benches, and picnic tables are great for teens and adults. The equipment is one of the most important facets of the park, so take caution on choosing the right pieces.

Landscaping

The final part of this guide to building a public park in your neighborhood is landscaping and architecture. Natural terrain helps enhance a park’s space. After all, you don’t want children to play in a parking lot. Parks should be green, beautiful, and enjoyable. Add flower banks, potted plants, and other landscaping accents to make your park stand out.

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