Snohomish County Celebrates New Inclusive Playground at Forsgren Park

Snohomish County celebrated the grand re-opening of the inclusive playground at Forsgren Park in Bothell, backed by a $610,000 investment. Completed in May 2025, the playground is designed for children aged 2 to 12 and features imaginative structures that far exceed standard accessibility requirements. Community involvement was paramount, with over 600 residents influencing the design, particularly in the creation of sensory-rich play experiences. County Executive Dave Somers acknowledged the vital role of public input in shaping the playground’s vision. The innovative features include a Communication Board for non-verbal communication and specialized surfacing that provides a smooth play area for children with mobility devices.

Parks Director Sharon Walker highlighted the commitment to inclusivity, stating that the focus is on creating welcoming spaces for all. Additionally, the project underscores the county's ongoing efforts to enhance public parks, with plans for more renovations in the future. This playground symbolizes a significant step toward ensuring all families can enjoy accessible recreational spaces.