In 2020, Oakdale Public Schools embarked on a mission to update their outdoor learning, recreation, and play spaces. They passed a bond issue to overhaul their outdoor spaces to provide a fun, stimulating, and safe environment for the students. As part of this plan, they commissioned CLS & Associates, LLC to design a destination playground that would not only cater to the school's needs but also become an asset to the entire community. The surrounding community is invited to use the playground at any time.

CLS worked closely with teachers and students to understand their needs and desires. They sought feedback on the types of play activities and equipment that students enjoyed and took into consideration the educational and developmental goals of the school. This collaborative approach ensured that the final design incorporated the end-users' inputs, making it safe, functional, and beneficial to the students.

The playground boasts a range of features, including innovative equipment, including a coco swing, bloqx climber, Inclusive carousel, among others. It also includes a multi-purpose sports court, outdoor classroom, amphitheater, stage, soccer field, artificial turf lawn, and shade structures for the students, teachers, parents and neighborhood groups. The $1.4 million project was designed to cater to the various age groups of students in the school. It provides areas for young children to play and explore, as well as areas for older children to engage in more challenging physical activities.

The playground is designed to foster socialization and community building. The design encourages collaborative play, allowing students to develop their social skills and learn the value of teamwork and cooperation.

 

The road that surrounds the playground is for bus access only and is closed during normal playground use times.

The Oakdale Public Schools playground project is a testament to the importance of thoughtful design in creating spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and beneficial to those who use them. The design of the playground ensures that all students at Oakdale Public Schools and the surrounding community have a safe and stimulating space to play and learn, regardless of their age or ability. Additionally, the playground serves as a source of pride for the school and the community, highlighting the importance of outdoor spaces in enhancing the educational experience of students.

General Contractor: CMS Willowbrook
Playground Installer: Kompan
Landscape Installer: Grooms Irrigation



The upcoming Playgrounds Issue of Landscape Architect and Specifier News saw many firms submit their projects for feature consideration. This project was not chosen for a Feature in the issue, but we at LandscapeArchitect.com thought the project deserved to be showcased online . . .

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