Jollyman Park All-Inclusive Playground

Nestled in a quiet neighborhood among mature trees and lush landscaping, is a wondrous place where children play side-by-side—drawing on outdoor chalkboards, spinning in colorful orbs, summiting web towers, swinging on nest-like discs, zipping down slide hill, or escaping to vine-covered retreats. And no child is left behind! Welcome to the all-inclusive playground at Jollyman Park.

Through foundational work on the City of Cupertino’s first ever Parks and Recreation Master Plan, MIG directed the process to identify and respond more closely to the community’s priorities. As part of this effort, residents clearly articulated their desire for truly all-inclusive recreation. The City identified Jollyman Park, one of Cupertino’s largest parks, as the location for an all-inclusive playground, and a winning grant helped fund the improvements.

MIG worked with the City, public, stakeholders within the differing abilities community, Art Commission, and Park and Recreation Commission—to replace the existing 5-12-year-old play area with a larger, universally-accessible, all-inclusive destination play area where people of all ages and abilities can play together. The new play area supports recreation and social interaction for people with autism; sensory challenges; cognitive, developmental, and physical disability; and those without special needs.

The improvements feature a collection of nature-themed play areas that offer a variety of ways to participate and experience play. A few design elements include looping nature paths, sidewalk enhancements, boulders, sand play, an open-framed playhouse, non-verbal communication signage, picnic areas, velvety grass, perimeter fencing, and accessible all-gender restrooms. MIG is currently collaborating with the City and Art Commission to further enhance play value through custom fabrications, such as a shade kaleidoscope and bird scavenger hunt.

The result is an enchanting space that celebrates accessibility, inclusivity, and the City’s commitment to ensuring that everyone of every ability has a place to play.