Sertoma Club secures donations for new all-inclusive playground

A new all-inclusive playground has taken a big step toward coming to Sertoma Park.

The Sioux Falls Noon Sertoma Club has secured more than $344,000 in donations to construct the fully acessible, inclusive space.

The donations include $275,000 from the Elmen Foundation, $59,000 from community philanthropists Rick and Glenys Hull and $10,000 from First Premier Bank.

The total cost of the project is $1.1 million, of which more than $650,000 has been secured between the most recent donations and money the Sertoma Club has raised internally.

Once the remaining $450,000 is raised, construction can start at Sertoma Park, 4300 S. Oxbow Ave. From that point, it will take six to eight weeks to complete the playground.

“These incredibly generous contributions move us closer to creating a destination playground that reflects our community’s commitment to inclusion,” said Scott Newman, spokesperson for the club.

“The Sertoma Legacy Playground will be a place where limitations are removed, families feel welcome and every child has the chance to experience the joy of play.”

The Sertoma Legacy Playground will feature state-of-the-art inclusive equipment, including accessible surfacing, sensory-rich play zones and design elements that allow children with mobility, sensory and developmental disabilities to fully participate in play, according to a statement from the club.

It will be on the south side of the large pavilion at Sertoma Park, and the goal is “to become a regional model for inclusive outdoor recreation,” according to the club.

The hope is that construction can begin next year.