Forest district supports expansion of special needs playground

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County's Board of Commissioners has approved the next phase of development at the Wheaton Park District Sensory Garden and Playground for children with special needs.

This next phase will include a playground for 5- to 12-year-olds, a water play area and accessible treehouse, and a multipurpose sensory-integrated sports field.

The garden and playground are on 37 acres of leased land at Danada Forest Preserve in Wheaton. To ensure improvements remain in line with the forest district's mission, the board must approve any development on the leased property, which is on Navistar Drive, one block east of Naperville Road and one block north of Warrenville Road.

Forest district President Joe Cantore said the partnership is a model of good government designed to address the needs of DuPage County's underserved residents and advance outdoor learning experiences.

"The district is honored to be part of a collaboration between Wheaton Park District and others to provide an area for nature-oriented play," Cantore said. "This playground is in keeping with our mission to foster a community where everyone can connect to nature."

Forest Preserve District Commissioner Tim Whelan, District 4, said the partnership gives each agency an opportunity to enhance the value of nature in children's development.

"It's a win-win situation," Whelan said. "This playground provides children with a fun and interactive way to enjoy the outdoors, and it's in keeping with our mission."

The playground is designed to meet the needs of all visitors, especially those on the autism spectrum, and is a joint project between the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County, Wheaton Park District, Western DuPage Special Recreation Association, Kiwanis Club of Wheaton, Shane's Inspiration and Landscape Structures Inc.