Eastglen Playground (Old Water Tower) 

We are excited for Westlock's first barrier-free accessible playground. East Glen Park will be a playspace for all children to feel welcome, inspired, included, and happy. Inclusive playgrounds remove boundaries with safe and fun equipment that allows all children to feel independent, smart, comfortable and active.

Grand Opening: October 24, 2025 at 10 a.m.

Project Details

• Phase Four: Spring/Summer 2025
  Playground build/installation
• Phase Three: Early 2025
  Project went to Tender Winter 2025
• Phase Two: Fall 2024
  Site Preparation, concrete and asphalt work began in the Fall of 2024.
• Phase One: Spring/Summer 2024
  Planning and Fundraising

The playground was funded through the Town of Westlock’s capital investment, with generous support from the Rotary Club of Westlock, the Government of Canada through the Enabling Accessibility Fund, the Province of Alberta through the Community Facility Enhancement Program (CFEP), and Kal-Tire, whose combined contributions helped expand the scope and impact of the project. Their partnership made it possible to enhance accessibility, add unique play elements, and create a welcoming gathering place for children and caregivers alike.

Seven Principles of Accessible Playground Design

• FAIR: Equitable opportunities for physical, cognitive, communication, social/emotional, and sensory play
• ACCESSIBLE: Access flexibility by way of ramps, climbers, links, transfer platforms
• SMART: Simple and intuitive design that has behavioural cues, sensory feedback, well-organized play patterns, clear expectations
• INDEPENDENT: Individual exploration that includes accessible surfaces, accessible routes, slide transfers
• SAFE: Safety standards and comfort in supervision areas, clear visibility, cozy spots, jump-in points
• ACTIVE: Accommodate diverse needs for sustained physical activity, cooperation, socialization
• COMFORTABLE: Space for movement and gathering for diverse sensory needs, comfortable approach and reach, environmental relief

Meet Bobbie Byrt

Bobbie was born with a rare birth defect, an omphalocele, and a genetic variant that is unique to only her. She was diagnosed with Early Developmental Impairment shortly after birth which affects her both physically and cognitively. Currently, Bobbie feeds with a G-Tube, walks using an assistive walking device and requires additional harnesses while sitting in chairs.

Despite these delays, Bobbie is incredibly social and loves spending time playing and laughing amongst her peers. A visit to the playground for Bobbie generally includes someone holding her in their arms every step of the way. However, an inclusive playground with wheel-friendly terrain and wide walkways would allow her to navigate independently in her walker while playing with her friends. Supportive swings with additional harnesses would keep Bobbie securely strapped in and support her low muscle tone while swinging. Interactive games and manipulatives fastened to the walls of walkways would keep her engaged while making her way through the play structure.

Time after time Bobbie has shown us that when she’s given opportunities to participate she will grow! This has been true in regards to speech, oral feeding, social interaction, and fine and gross motor skills. A playground is a place to learn through play, gain independence, explore, and let creativity blossom. For kids like Bobbie, having an inclusive playground in Westlock is offering them an opportunity to do just that.

Our thanks to the Byrt family for sharing their story.
~Town of Westlock