Accessibility, Inclusivity Awaits at O.T. Sloan Park

O.T. Sloan Park is a public community space offering a variety of recreational amenities for people of all ages and abilities. In 2023, Lee County and its Parks & Recreation department partnered with WithersRavenel to create a more inclusive playground experience for children of all abilities.

WithersRavenel’s Design & Planning team led the design and development of an accessible playground pad, ensuring pedestrian-friendly features. Barrs Recreation provided playground equipment, and Sanford Contractors performed site work. These features included ADA-compliant walkways, parking, and a pedestrian plaza. Additional enhancements at O.T. Sloan Park included fencing, a seat wall, and site furnishings.

WithersRavenel provided a range of services for this project. Services included project management, a federal endangered species survey, a SUE Level B survey, a topographic survey, construction documents, permitting, bidding, and construction administration.

To maximize O.T. Sloan Park’s potential, WithersRavenel also assisted the County in securing funding through the Accessibility for Parks (AFP) Grant, a state-funded program designed to improve inclusive recreational access for children and veterans with disabilities across North Carolina.

The new inclusive playground at O.T. Sloan Park officially opened in March 2025, offering a sensory-rich environment where individuals of all abilities can play, explore, and engage in healthy development.