Welcome to Meridian's Accessible Recreation Hub! We take pride in creating inclusive spaces where everyone, regardless of ability, can fully enjoy our city's amenities. From adaptive playgrounds to accessible pathways, our commitment to inclusivity extends across every recreational aspect. Explore our vibrant community and discover the joy of accessible recreation in Meridian.
Parks
At Meridian, we aim to create inclusive spaces that foster learning, social interaction, and enjoyable experiences for children with diverse abilities. Our approach to playground accessibility extends beyond ramps. We strive to curate spaces that encourage learning, social interaction, and fun for children of all abilities. Our playgrounds boast an array of features:
- Tactile Play: Elements such as climbing walls, finger mazes, and textured surfaces are seamlessly integrated to inspire tactile exploration and engagement.
- Auditory Stimulation: Incorporating bells and other auditory components stimulates senses, contributing to an inclusive atmosphere.
- Social Play: Inclusive motion spinners are strategically placed to encourage social interaction and engagement among children.
- Adaptive Swings and Equipment: Many of our playgrounds feature inclusive and adaptive swings, complemented by transfer stations and ground-level tactile experiences, ensuring that every child can actively participate.
Ongoing Development: We aim to ensure that every child, regardless of ability, can enjoy our parks. We persistently strive to create inclusive, secure, and stimulating spaces where children can learn, play, and grow together.
The following parks offer playgrounds that are surfaced with bonded rubber material, prioritizing safety and facilitating mobility device use.
- Bear Creek Park
- Chateau Park
- Discovery Park
- Settler’s Park
For specific details about amenities available in each park, please visit the Current Parks section on our website.
Pathways
Meridian offers a network of accessible pathways designed to provide safe, enjoyable, and inclusive recreational experiences for individuals of all abilities. Our commitment to accessibility extends to these pathways, ensuring that everyone can explore and appreciate the beauty of our city.
Features of Meridian's Accessible Pathways:
- Smooth Surfaces: Pathways are constructed with smooth, even surfaces to facilitate easy mobility for individuals using wheelchairs, strollers, or other mobility aids.
- Rest Areas: Five Mile Creek Pathway has a rest area with drinking water and a trailhead to park and access the pathway. This pathway also traverses through three of our parks where there are recreational opportunities as well as comfort and convenience amenities.
- Connectivity: Meridian has over 60 miles of pathways (some in the form of wide, detached sidewalks through neighborhoods) that are becoming more and more connected each year.
- Landscaping: Several pathways have landscaping and/or border creeks and canals that provide opportunities for quiet reflection.
Accessibility Enhancements:
- Ramps and Slopes: Where applicable, ramps and gentle slopes are integrated into the pathways, allowing for easy navigation and inclusivity.
- Braille Signage: Our accessible restroom signage includes Braille for enhanced accessibility.
Ongoing Development: Meridian is committed to continuously improving and expanding our accessible pathway network. Community feedback is valued, and we strive to incorporate suggestions to enhance accessibility features.
For specific details, please visit the Parks & Recreation section of our website.
Facilities
In addition to our inclusive playgrounds, Meridian takes pride in providing accessible facilities to ensure a welcoming environment for all community members. Our commitment to inclusivity extends to various public spaces, enhancing the overall experience for individuals with diverse abilities.
Key Features:
- ADA Compliance: All public facilities in Meridian adhere to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards, ensuring accessibility in terms of entrances, exits, restrooms, and parking areas.
- Universal Design: Meridian's facilities are designed with a universal approach, incorporating features that benefit everyone, including individuals with mobility challenges, sensory sensitivities, or other diverse abilities.
Notable Accessible Facilities:
- Community Center: Our community center provides inclusive spaces for social gatherings, events, and recreational activities. Accessible entrances and facilities are available to accommodate everyone.
- Recreation Centers: Meridian Homecourt and the Meridian Pool provide accessible gymnasiums, swimming pools, and fitness areas that cater to individuals of all abilities, encouraging active and healthy lifestyles.
- Meeting Spaces: Public meeting spaces within the city are designed to be accessible, allowing for the participation of all community members in civic engagement and decision-making processes.
Ongoing Commitment: Meridian is committed to continuous improvement and welcomes feedback from residents to enhance the accessibility features of our facilities. We believe in creating a community where everyone feels included, and our accessible facilities play a crucial role in achieving this vision.
For specific details, please visit the Parks & Recreation section of our website.
Activities
Meridian takes pride in offering a range of sports courts that are designed to be inclusive and accessible to individuals of all abilities. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or someone looking for recreational activities, our sports facilities are equipped to provide an enjoyable and accommodating experience.
Key Features:
- Surface Accessibility: The sports courts feature surfaces that facilitate easy movement for individuals with mobility aids, ensuring that everyone can participate in sports activities comfortably.
- Seating Areas: Accessible seating areas are provided near the sports courts, allowing spectators or participants who need a break to rest comfortably.
- Multisport Options: Meridian caters to a variety of sports, providing opportunities for basketball, tennis, pickleball, and other activities. This diversity ensures that there's something for everyone.
Community Engagement:
- Community Events: Regular events are organized, fostering community engagement and providing opportunities for residents to showcase their skills and camaraderie.
- Accessible Facilities: Adjacent facilities, such as restrooms and water stations, are designed to be accessible, contributing to an overall inclusive experience.
Ongoing Improvements: Meridian is committed to ongoing improvements to enhance the accessibility and inclusivity of our sports courts. We welcome feedback from the community to address specific needs and make adjustments that ensure a positive recreational experience for everyone.
For specific details, please visit the Parks & Recreation section of our website.