There was joy all around on Thursday, April 21, as the greater Tuscaloosa community gathered together for the grand opening of the All-Inclusive Playground at Sokol Park.

The All-Inclusive Playground creates opportunities for children and families of all ages and abilities to play together and benefit from the social and physical development that playgrounds provide.

Elevate Tuscaloosa contributed $500,000 to the first phase of this project, which broke ground on September 21, 2020. During the grand opening celebration, Mayor Walt Maddox said “this is a joyous occasion, because it demonstrates how our community believes that everyone, regardless of age or ability, should have equal opportunities.”

Mayor Maddox also celebrated the community partnerships that made this project possible. The ceremony featured representatives from project partners including the City of Tuscaloosa, Nick’s Kids Foundation, the PARA Foundation, the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama, the City of Northport, Tuscaloosa County and more.

After the ribbon was cut, a group of children of all abilities from around the community set out to explore the new playground with their families.

This playground, which when complete will be the largest of its kind in Alabama, is expected to attract visits from families all across the state. To learn more about the project click here.