The Hermiston Parks and Recreation Department, along with incredible support from the Community, has built 1 of the largest, most engaging, and inclusive playgrounds in the Northwest. Umatilla Electric Cooperative, along with many other sponsors, was proud to contribute to further the accessibility in the park by creating a tactile map of the park, allowing visually impaired children and adults to enjoy the park as well.
Hermiston Parks and Recreation and the Hermiston Lions Club partnered with the Accessible Ed and Disability Resources department at Portland Community College to develop and design a tactile map for Funland Playground. It provides individuals who are blind or visually impaired an opportunity to perceive information about the park through raised surfaces, textures, braille, and symbols.
“This tactile map embraces Hermiston’s identity as an inclusive community and ensures children with visual impairment can explore and enjoy the park,” Recreation Director Brandon Artz said.
The tactile map was unveiled on Wednesday, April 23 at the park. The event was well-attended by local officials, sponsors, and community members. Kodie Arnold, a Hermiston native (shown left), attended the unveiling and read the tactile map for attendees at the event.
For more about Funland Park, visit the City of Hermiston website.