RDCO celebrates playground opening with a commitment to accessibility

Mission Creek Regional Park was filled with laughter, connection and celebration

Today, Mission Creek Regional Park was filled with laughter, connection and celebration as community leaders, and local officials gathered to mark the grand opening of the park’s newly renewed playground.

The event was a tribute to what is possible when a community comes together to create something meaningful. The upgraded playground is designed to be a welcoming space for children of all abilities, featuring accessible equipment, sensory-friendly zones and a smooth, poured-in-place rubber surface that ensures safe and easy access for everyone.

“This playground renewal is a powerful example of what happens when we listen to our community and take action,” said Loyal Wooldridge, RDCO Board Chair, “By prioritizing accessibility and inclusion, we’ve created a space where children of all ages and abilities can play, connect and feel welcome. I’m proud of the collaboration that brought this project to life and grateful to everyone who contributed to making it a reality.”

The playground’s design was shaped by extensive community input, including feedback from parents, caregivers, educators and children. Accessibility, safety, community and fun were top priorities, and the final result reflects those values at every turn.

Inclusivity was at the heart of the project. From wheelchair-accessible features to quiet, low-stimulation areas for children with sensory sensitivities, every detail was chosen with care. The playground stands as a testament to the RDCO’s commitment to listening to its residents and creating spaces that reflect their needs.

The celebration included remarks from RDCO leaders, and plenty of playtime for children eager to explore the new space. As the festivities wrapped up, the message was clear: this playground is a symbol of community collaboration, inclusivity and joy.

The Regional District of Central Okanagan offers more than 2,100 hectares of parkland including 86 kilometres of designated trails in 30 regional parks for visitors to explore. Visit rdco.com/parks to plan your next outing.