“I appreciate that this park is a symbol of the community that we want to build in Bellevue,” Angelia Lewmen, a parent, said. “One where children of all abilities are able to play together, interact, and have fun. When children who have special needs or physical disabilities have the opportunity to interact with peers who do not face the same challenge, they benefit from having peer role models.”

The park is four times the size of any other playground in the city. With the park’s huge size there is also a trail that has been complimented by the public.

“My little sister’s favorite part [of American Heroes Park] is obviously the playground, because it’s so huge,” freshman Katherine Armstrong said. “My favorite part is the walking trail, because it’s a nice route to take our dog on a walk.”

Cerebral Palsy Guidance highlights the importance of children needing a safe place to play. It also mentions the importance of creating a pleasant environment for them to develop and grow. 

 “Parks should be inclusive so that anyone, regardless of their abilities, may enjoy playtime outside,” Savanna Bowling said. Bowling is a volunteer coordinator and adaptive specialist in recreational therapy at Munroe-Meyer. “Having access to playgrounds is something that should be provided to families in the community, so they are able to get outside and enjoy time together with fresh air and fun.”

The next expansion coming to the park is an amphitheater. It is still unclear as of when this addition would be added.

“I would strongly suggest the city put a better perimeter around the park or around the water that is close by it,” Lewmen said. “While the park itself is extremely accessible, so is the water. Children with certain special needs often struggle with elopement issues. Young children are known to do the same. The water hazard provides a challenge to parents who may be trying to supervise multiple children at once. If nothing is done about this, I fear it is unfortunately just a matter of time before there is an accident.”

According to Adventure Playground Systems, the Americans Disability Act (ABA) includes play areas and parks. American Heroes park includes features such as wheelchair accessible ramps, a wheelchair accessible carousel, a small and large zip line, adaptive swing seats, and cruisers. The park also includes a sign language sign and a braille sign.

“My son Joshua who has special needs is able to challenge himself to try new things as there are features at this playground that do not exist at others within the Bellevue area,” Lewmen said.

Cerebral Palsy Guidance notes that play is vital to children. Play develops emotional, intellectual, physical, sensory, and social skills. 

“This park is a symbol that we are doing better overall as a community in making sure that Bellevue has public spaces that serve all of our citizens,” Lewmen said. “Children without special needs benefit from these interactions as they improve their understanding of others, adjusting their approach to play to make sure their friends are included. In the end, all children benefit from these interactions.”