We propose that Marin County invests in and builds a Magical Bridge fully inclusive playground. These playgrounds are designed as multigenerational destination parks where all visitors, regardless of their abilities or age, can feel accommodated, have a sense of belonging, and actively participate in recreation without barriers.

 

Magical Bridge is intentionally designed to be socially inclusive, providing a safe and accessible outdoor play space for all, including the 1-in-4 of us living with physical and cognitive disabilities, autism, visual and hearing impairments, as well as for the medically fragile and our aging population. Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties already have five Magical Bridge playgrounds with more in the works! These parks are for everyone. Not just for disabled people, not just for people with mobility devices. These parks are for EVERYONE to fully access play and recreation together, young and old. 

My daughter is a wheelchair user, and is currently unable to fully access and play on any of the playgrounds in Marin County. The current ADA compliance standards are just a legal minimum that does not ensure true accessibility for all individuals. This situation is not unique to us; many families face similar challenges daily.

The need for such an inclusive space is evident. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in four U.S adults – 61 million Americans – have some type of disability (visible or invisible) that impacts major life activities ("CDC: 1 in 4 US adults live with a disability," CNN). In California alone, around 10% of children have special healthcare needs (Lucile Packard Foundation for Children's Health). Most of these disabilities are invisible. 

By building this Magical Bridge playground, we will be creating a welcoming and inclusive place where everyone -- regardless of age, ability, race, or gender, can come together to play, discover, reflect, and connect, and ultimately a kinder and more inclusive community.  It's time we move beyond bare minimum legal standards towards comprehensive inclusivity.  Everyone benefits from inclusive spaces - not just people with disabilities. 

Please sign this petition if you believe every person deserves equal access to play spaces regardless of their abilities or age. Let's make Marin County lead by example!