Winchester celebrates new park designed for accessible, sensory-play

CLARK COUNTY, Ky. (WTVQ) – Monday, Winchester celebrated the opening of a new park that has play space for children of all abilities and it has a huge impact on the community.

“When we pulled up to this park for the first time, my eyes opened up and they gleamed,” Steven Moore said.

That’s because Moore said he saw the joy on his son’s face, and the accessibility Legacy Grove Park in Winchester provided.

“I try not to get emotional, but it’s hard to do,” Moore said, while speaking at the park’s dedication ceremony Monday. “So many times when you’re a parent, as many of you know, you don’t know what your kids are gonna be able to do when they’re faced with challenges.”

Moore’s son, Lincoln, was diagnosed with spina bifida four years ago. Doctors said Lincoln might not walk or talk again, but he defied those odds.

“With prayers and hard work and family and the health care team, he’s doing more than anyone ever dreamed of and a big part of that is having places like this to come,” Moore said.

The park provides sensory play and allows kids using mobility devices to move freely.

Project Manager Beth Jones walked through some examples of sensory play. She pointed out one structure and said the open area underneath it allows kids to center themselves when they need space.

Jones also pointed out the Exploration Creek. It’s where wet and dry play meet.

“So let’s say I don’t like being wet. I just don’t like the sensation of water on my skin, but I don’t have the words yet to say that,” Jones explained. “I just know I don’t want to get in there. We have it where it meets so that I can play with my friends that want to be dunked in the water and I don’t, and nobody knows I’m different.”

Lily Florence was in sixth grade when she was asked to help with the project from a child’s perspective. She’s now a junior, and glad to see it come to life.

“I hope that people learn that it was not easy whatsoever, but it’s very rewarding that children for future generations get to have this park,” Florence said.

“For families like us, for Lincoln, for all kids, no matter what their ability or what their age is, it’s just a wonderful place,” Moore said. “We’re so honored to be a part of this community.”

Jones said the Greater Clark Foundation paid for the park – re-purposing the land where the Clark Regional Medical Center once stood.