How Does the Americans with Disabilities Act Work for Playgrounds?

‍Public playgrounds fall under the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design, which apply to new construction, alterations, or renovations of existing playgrounds after March 15, 2012. When a public playground undergoes an alteration or renovation, the altered portions must generally comply with the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design to the maximum extent feasible. The ADA sets the minimum accessibility standards. Many playgrounds go beyond the basic requirements to encourage children of all abilities to play together. ‍

While each playground is not required to automatically add an adapted swing, a renovation generally triggers compliance with the ADA play area requirements, including an accessible route and a mandated number of accessible ground-level and, where applicable, accessible elevated play components. If the playground includes other components, such as accessible spinners or a transfer station, the requirement still applies.

‍ADA standards for Accessible Design include accessible routes to and within the playground, with accessible ground surfaces along these routes. Ramps or transfer systems that allow children with mobility disabilities to access elevated equipment are part of ADA requirements. While there is no ADA requirement to provide adaptive swings, installing an adaptive swing as part of a renovation can help fulfill the ADA’s accessibility goals and expand accessible play opportunities. This is why it is so important to advocate for adding swings and other inclusive play elements during the design phase of a renovation, before construction begins.

For any parks scheduled for upcoming renovation in NYC, you can visit the Parks and Recreation Department’s Capital Tracker https://www.nycgovparks.org/planning-and-building/capital-project-tracker#Manhattan