LEXINGTON, Ky. — City officials cut a ribbon Thursday to officially launch new accessible features added to the playground at Berry Hill Park, marking the culmination of nearly two years of advocacy by parents of children with special needs.

Mayor Linda Gorton, Councilmember Amy Beasley, Parks & Recreation staff and neighborhood families attended the ceremony to unveil the additions, which include a new spinner, swing with a harness, perimeter fencing and a communication board designed to make outdoor play safer and more inclusive for children with disabilities.

According to a report from WKYT, the project cost over $50,000 and was driven by the persistent advocacy of parents in the community. One mother of children with special needs said she previously could not safely supervise both of her children at the park alone.

The spinner features seating with backs for individuals who may have low tone or difficulty sitting upright. The new swing includes a harness allowing parents to safely secure children while they swing. The perimeter fencing provides a safety barrier for children, and the communication board enables non-verbal individuals to easily communicate with caretakers and friends.

"Every child deserves a place where they feel seen, valued, and included," said Beasley, whose Eighth District includes the park. "This park is a reflection of what happens when a community listens, cares, and takes action."

Berry Hill Park is one of over 100 city parks managed by Lexington Parks & Recreation. The property also features the city's largest skatepark, which opened to the public in the summer of 2015, a recently renovated basketball court, and a recently repaved trail.

Monica Conrad, Director of Lexington Parks & Recreation, said the agency was grateful for community feedback and support from city leadership that made the project possible. "It invites more families and people of all ages to get outside, enjoy our parks, and play," Conrad said.