November 2023 • Florida Pool Prosm 17 COMMERCIAL CONNECTION Parks play a pivotal role in defining a community's quality of life, often influencing the perceived livability of an area. Central to this is the principle of inclusion, which supports equal access to opportunities and community resources, particularly for marginalized groups or those with disabilities. Splash pads, with their unique features and absence of standing water, inherently promote inclusion. However, with only 11% of parks currently having splash pads, there exists a significant opportunity to enhance inclusivity in community spaces. To achieve this, splash pad considerations must encompass a holistic view of several key design principles. The concept of universal design, originally created by the Center for Universal Design at North Carolina State University, steers inclusive splash pad creation with three distinct approaches. Firstly, the "Accessibility" approach adheres to ADA Standards, which set clear rules ensuring that facilities are physically accessible to those with disabilities. Secondly, the "Usability" approach moves beyond just access, aiming for comprehensive inclusion regardless of an individual's demographics or abilities. Lastly, "Inclusivity" combines elements of both accessibility and usability, focusing on offering a wide range of play experiences. In this design model, every user is viewed as unique, creating environments that are more usable, by more people, to the greatest extent possible. Design principles that prioritize user inclusivity and accessibility emphasize seven key aspects. Firstly, "Equitable Use" ensures that designs cater to individuals with varied abilities. "Flexibility in Use" accommodates diverse preferences and capabilities. "Simple and Intuitive Use" mandates designs to be easily comprehensible, regardless of the user's background or concentration. "Perceptible Information" ensures that designs convey information effectively, even in varied conditions or to those with sensory challenges. "Tolerance for Error" reduces hazards and potential negative outcomes from unintended actions. "Low Physical Effort" ensures designs demand minimal exertion, while "Size and Space for Approach and Use" guarantees that designs provide adequate space for interaction, irrespective of a user's physique or mobility. Designing splash pads for inclusion By Sylvia Bucklew, AquaWorx / sylvia.bucklew@aquaworxusa.com
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