# Willowbrook Park Playground Consultation ## Background Willowbrook Park is one of Brookhaven’s most cherished green spaces, known for its vibrant community atmosphere and natural beauty. As the city continues to grow, so too does the demand for modern, inclusive, and accessible recreational facilities. The current playground, a favorite spot for local families, is due for an upgrade to better serve the diverse needs of our community's children. This autumn, the City of Brookhaven is seeking input from residents on how to best redesign Willowbrook Park’s playground to create a space that is fun, safe, and welcoming for all. ![rendering of new playground](/sites/default/files/inline-images/DALL%C2%B7E%202024-08-09%2013.15.49%20-%20A%20close-up%20rendering%20of%20the%20small%20park%20playground%20from%20a%20different%20angle%2C%20focusing%20on%20the%20key%20play%20structures%20such%20as%20the%20slide%2C%20swing%20set%2C%20and%20climbi.jpeg) ## Get Involved The City of Brookhaven invites all residents to participate in an online public consultation regarding the future of Willowbrook Park's playground. This consultation is an opportunity for you to share your thoughts, ideas, and suggestions on what features and amenities you'd like to see in the new playground. Whether it’s more inclusive play equipment, enhanced safety measures, or green features, your input is crucial in shaping a playground that reflects the community’s values and needs. The consultation will run throughout the autumn season, and all feedback will be carefully considered in the final design plans. Your feedback will help us create a vibrant, engaging space that not only serves the needs of our children but also enhances the overall community experience in Willowbrook Park. We look forward to hearing from you! ### What aspects of the playground re-design are most important to you? Choices Integration of natural elements and green space Safety features and modern equipment Inclusivity and accessibility Variety and creativity in play structures and activities ## What We've Heard So Far In the [Tell Us Your Priorities](/node/272) survey, we asked residents: How important are the following aspects to you when considering the playground’s renovation? - Safety features - Children with disabilities - Variety of play equipment - Integration with nature - Aesthetic design - Accessibility and ease of use ## Project Listeners We are here to actively listen to your ideas, concerns, and suggestions throughout the Willowbrook Park Playground project. Our goal is to ensure that your feedback is thoughtfully considered in shaping the future of this cherished public space. ![emily profile image](/sites/default/files/inline-images/Emily.png)### Emily Harper Community Engagement Coordinator [Send me an email →](#) ![Profile of Carlos](/sites/default/files/inline-images/Carlos.png)### Carlos Martinez Senior Urban Planner [Send me an email →](#) ![profile image of Sophie](/sites/default/files/inline-images/Sophie.png)### Sophie Bennett Parks and Recreation Manager [Send me an email →](#) ## Learn more about the Willowtail Squirrel How much do you know about Willowbrook Park's wildlife? Watch this video to find out how these squirrels find thousands of nuts hidden over vast areas up to 7 acres wid. ![squirrel](/sites/default/files/inline-images/squirrel_4.png) **Stay in the loop** Get project updates, engagement opportunities, and key milestones—sent to your inbox. **Email address** **Sign up** ## Frequently Asked Questions Why is the Willowbrook Park Playground being redesigned?The playground at Willowbrook Park is being redesigned to better meet the needs of our growing and diverse community. The current facilities are aging and lack some of the modern, inclusive features that would make the playground accessible to all children. This redesign aims to create a safe, engaging, and welcoming space that reflects the values of our community. How can I participate in the consultation?You can participate in the consultation by attending one of the scheduled events, such as the open house or community workshop, or by filling out the online questionnaire. Additionally, there will be a virtual town hall where you can ask questions and share your thoughts in real-time. All residents are encouraged to participate in whatever way is most convenient for them. What will happen to the existing playground equipment?Some of the existing playground equipment may be refurbished and incorporated into the new design, depending on its condition and relevance to the new plans. Equipment that is no longer safe or suitable will be responsibly removed and replaced with modern, inclusive alternatives. The goal is to create a playground that balances new features with any existing elements that continue to serve the community well. When will the new playground be completed?The timeline for completing the new playground will depend on the feedback from the consultation and the subsequent design and construction phases. The city aims to begin construction in early spring 2025, with the goal of having the playground ready for use by late summer 2025. Regular updates will be provided throughout the process to keep the community informed. Will the playground be accessible for children with disabilities?Yes, the new playground will be designed with inclusivity in mind, ensuring that children of all abilities can enjoy the space. This includes features like wheelchair-accessible equipment, sensory play elements, and smooth, navigable surfaces. The consultation process will help identify specific needs and preferences to create a playground that is welcoming for everyone. How will my feedback be used in the final design?All feedback collected during the consultation will be carefully reviewed by the city's planning team and the playground designers. Your input will help guide the design decisions, ensuring that the final playground reflects the community’s desires and needs. The city is committed to creating a space that resonates with the values and visions expressed by Brookhaven residents. Another questionAccordion content. ![emily profile image](/sites/default/files/inline-images/Emily.png)### Emily Harper Community Engagement Coordinator [Send me an email →](#) ![Profile of Carlos](/sites/default/files/inline-images/Carlos.png)### Carlos Martinez Senior Urban Planner [Send me an email →](#) ![profile image of Sophie](/sites/default/files/inline-images/Sophie.png)### Sophie Bennett Parks and Recreation Manager [Send me an email →](#)