Leave it better than you found it: Roosevelt Park, Edison, N.J

Parks & Recreation, Nov, 2003

Roosevelt Park, in Edison, N.J., is now home to "Level Playing Fields," a barrier-free facility designed to set a new standard in inclusive recreation. The project consists of two playing fields, comfort stations in a multi-purpose building, a covered walkway, a general assembly pavilion area and a new parking lot. The complex also includes a family-oriented ice skating rink to complement the facilities during the winter months when the playing fields aren't used. In addition, the Lakeview School and Rehabilitation Center for children with cerebral palsy is located within Roosevelt Park, across the lake from this new facility.

Of the two fields, one was designed for baseball, the other for soccer and other sporting events. The fields were constructed of a 3/8"-thick molded and vulcanized rubber play surface to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices, and to prevent injuries. The use of this special surfacing material affords individuals with special needs an opportunity to participate in organized team sports.

At the complex, visitors have access to a conveniently located multi-purpose building containing specialized restroom facilities, which far exceed conventional barrier-free guidelines. Every fixture and accessory included in the building was selected and installed with accessibility in mind. All stalls and clearances were constructed to accommodate the largest wheelchair or mobility device. The facility contains a "family restroom area," designed so that individuals requiring assistance with tending to personal hygiene needs are accommodated in a large private area, suitable for family members or care-givers to assist them.

For more information, see http://co.middlesex.nj.us/parks recreation/roosevelt.asp.