Leon County Government opened a new playground at Pedrick Pond Park, located near the Leon County Eastside Branch Library at 1583 Pedrick Road. The new playground, created and designed to support expressive play for children, offers ADA accessible features, including a sidewalk leading to the playground and ramps into the play space.
“By creating play spaces for families and children, the County supports the development of our future generation,” said Leon County Commission Chairman Bill Proctor. “Active and engaging play promotes mental and physical well-being while giving children a space to socialize, grow, and learn.”
As part of the County’s commitment to enhance the community’s quality of life, the new playground features musical instruments, vibrant colors, and textures that encourage imaginative play-based learning and enhances sensory engagement. The playground surface will be a mix of artificial turf and mulch, adhering to the International Play Equipment Manufacturers Association (IPEMA) guidelines. An artificial turf hill serves as the main attraction, allowing children to safely experiment with climbing, sliding, and crawling.
“This is a great addition to District 5 residents and everyone countywide,” said Leon County District 5 Commissioner Kristin Dozier. “With the addition of the playground and the exploration encouraged at the Eastside Branch Library, this area is set to be a well-rounded space for all to enjoy, offering outdoor activity and lifelong learning.”
First opened in 2006, the 24.64-acre park includes Pedrick Pond, the Eastside Branch Library, and now the all-new playground. Pedrick Pond Park offers a .8-mile walking path along Pedrick Road that loops around Pedrick Pond. The pond, which doubles as a stormwater catch-all, is surrounded by live oaks and azaleas, creating an idyllic backdrop for library patrons and park visitors alike.
“The County’s continued investment in Pedrick Pond demonstrates our ongoing commitment to creating spaces for all ages,” said Leon County Administrator Vincent S. Long. “From the library to the walking trail to the new playground, our County teams have made a public space to engage and bring people together.”
Recently, Leon County unveiled ADA accessible and innovative play features at the newly designated Parwez “P.A.” Alam Park at Okeeheepkee Prairie Preserve. The County has plans to add more active recreational spaces, including enhancements in Fort Braden and Orange-Meridian Park.
In addition to the playground, Pedrick Pond Park was chosen by Knights Creative Communities Institute (KCCI) for the 2022 Catalyst Class Project “Fully Booked, Tallahassee” which aims to enhance the sense of place at Pedrick Pond Park through art and other features. The County Commission unanimously voted to accept the proposal. You can learn more about the project on KCCI’s website.
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