Jumpstart Inclusive Playground

The Latest News: Groundbreaking Celebrates Start of Jumpstart Inclusive Playground


Thanks to the community leadership of the Inclusive Play Project, Shannon Park in Rideau Heights will be the site of a brand-new, highly accessible playground designed to welcome children of all abilities.

Featuring rubber safety surfacing and ramped play structures, the playground provides safe and easy, transfer-free access for kids and family members using mobility aids such as wheelchairs and walkers. The play area also includes sensory-friendly elements, offering engaging opportunities tailored to a wide range of sensory needs.

Construction is underway in 2026, site mobilization started in April and project completion is anticipated around late summer of this year.

The new Jumpstart Inclusive Playground will be in the northwest corner of Shannon Park, to the east of the existing playground, near the intersection of MacCauley Street and Daly Street.


A map showing the playground's location in the northwest corner of Shannon Park, to the east of the existing playground which will remain, near the intersection of MacCauley Street and Daly Street.


Once completed, the playground will feature a variety of different play options. Some of the examples are shown in the image below.

A collage made up of 15 different images depicting examples of the playground equipment at the new Jumpstart Inclusive Playground.


Background

This project was spearheaded by the passion and commitment of the Inclusive Play Project, a local community group dedicated to celebrating and promoting the power of play for all ages and abilities.

In September 2023, Kingston City Council adopted the recommendation from the Municipal Accessibility Advisory Committee (MAAC) to work with the Inclusive Play Project and community partners, to support the building of a highly inclusive playground in a City-owned park.

Shannon Park was chosen as the location of the new accessible playground site, due to existing accessible play equipment as well as its proximity to accessible facilities at Rideau Heights Community Centre.

Fundraising and support

Since 2023, fundraising efforts have secured commitments of more than $1.2 million for the project from private individuals, foundations, corporation donations and government support. The Jumpstart Inclusive Playground is made possible with funding from Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities. Thank you to those who have already donated to the Inclusive Play Project, as well as significant support from Tim Hortons Kingston, Government of Canada Enabling Accessibility Fund, Kinsmen Club of Kingston, Britton Smith Foundation, Anna and Edward C. Churchill Foundation, Enhancing Access to Spaces for Everyone Grant, V2 Innovations, William James Henderson Foundation, Swyrich Corporation, Kingston Construction Association, Lawson Foundation, The Kingston Foundation for Autism, and Skyline Group of Companies.

Fundraising is ongoing and please visit the Inclusive Play Project's website to learn how to donate.

The City of Kingston has continued to provide support for the project; this includes providing the City owned land for the playground site, a contribution of $300K in funding, along with staff support to manage the design including civil works, procurement package creation, as well as oversight of the construction of the playground. The City will also ensure the long-term maintenance of the playground after construction is completed.

Stay connected

Project news and updates will be posted on this page and emailed to followers. Sign up to receive updates using the follow project feature or check back here periodically to stay informed on project progress.

Help Out

We are seeking volunteers to decorate Tim Hortons Smile Cookies April 27 to May 1, with 100% of the proceeds of the cookie sales going to the Inclusive Play Project. If you are interested, please fill out the sign-up form.

The Latest News: Groundbreaking Celebrates Start of Jumpstart Inclusive Playground


Thanks to the community leadership of the Inclusive Play Project, Shannon Park in Rideau Heights will be the site of a brand-new, highly accessible playground designed to welcome children of all abilities.

Featuring rubber safety surfacing and ramped play structures, the playground provides safe and easy, transfer-free access for kids and family members using mobility aids such as wheelchairs and walkers. The play area also includes sensory-friendly elements, offering engaging opportunities tailored to a wide range of sensory needs.

Construction is underway in 2026, site mobilization started in April and project completion is anticipated around late summer of this year.

The new Jumpstart Inclusive Playground will be in the northwest corner of Shannon Park, to the east of the existing playground, near the intersection of MacCauley Street and Daly Street.


A map showing the playground's location in the northwest corner of Shannon Park, to the east of the existing playground which will remain, near the intersection of MacCauley Street and Daly Street.


Once completed, the playground will feature a variety of different play options. Some of the examples are shown in the image below.

A collage made up of 15 different images depicting examples of the playground equipment at the new Jumpstart Inclusive Playground.


Background

This project was spearheaded by the passion and commitment of the Inclusive Play Project, a local community group dedicated to celebrating and promoting the power of play for all ages and abilities.

In September 2023, Kingston City Council adopted the recommendation from the Municipal Accessibility Advisory Committee (MAAC) to work with the Inclusive Play Project and community partners, to support the building of a highly inclusive playground in a City-owned park.

Shannon Park was chosen as the location of the new accessible playground site, due to existing accessible play equipment as well as its proximity to accessible facilities at Rideau Heights Community Centre.

Fundraising and support

Since 2023, fundraising efforts have secured commitments of more than $1.2 million for the project from private individuals, foundations, corporation donations and government support. The Jumpstart Inclusive Playground is made possible with funding from Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities. Thank you to those who have already donated to the Inclusive Play Project, as well as significant support from Tim Hortons Kingston, Government of Canada Enabling Accessibility Fund, Kinsmen Club of Kingston, Britton Smith Foundation, Anna and Edward C. Churchill Foundation, Enhancing Access to Spaces for Everyone Grant, V2 Innovations, William James Henderson Foundation, Swyrich Corporation, Kingston Construction Association, Lawson Foundation, The Kingston Foundation for Autism, and Skyline Group of Companies.

Fundraising is ongoing and please visit the Inclusive Play Project's website to learn how to donate.

The City of Kingston has continued to provide support for the project; this includes providing the City owned land for the playground site, a contribution of $300K in funding, along with staff support to manage the design including civil works, procurement package creation, as well as oversight of the construction of the playground. The City will also ensure the long-term maintenance of the playground after construction is completed.

Stay connected

Project news and updates will be posted on this page and emailed to followers. Sign up to receive updates using the follow project feature or check back here periodically to stay informed on project progress.

Help Out

We are seeking volunteers to decorate Tim Hortons Smile Cookies April 27 to May 1, with 100% of the proceeds of the cookie sales going to the Inclusive Play Project. If you are interested, please fill out the sign-up form.

  • Groundbreaking Celebrates Start of Jumpstart Inclusive Playground


    A photo a a group of people holding shovels in front of the future playground site.Students from JG Simcoe Public School; Rachel Doornekamp, Inclusive Play Project; Amy Elgersma, City of Kingston; Mike Espey, Dan Gostlin, Mike Mercier, Canadian Tire; Mayor Bryan Paterson; Councillor Brandon Tozzo; Lori Gagnon, Jumpstart Canadian Tire Charities; Mitch Wiskel, City of Kingston; Councillor Paul Chaves; Sara Miller, City of Kingston; Ian Cholmondeley; Inclusive Play Project volunteers.



    At a special event held this morning at Shannon Park, the start of construction of the future home of the Jumpstart Inclusive Playground was celebrated. For more than three years, volunteers of the Inclusive Play Project have mobilized individuals, organizations, foundations and all levels of government to contribute to the development of this accessible playground, named the Jumpstart Inclusive Playground.

    Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities (Jumpstart) is a national charity dedicated to enabling lifelong success through access to sport and play. By removing financial, physical, geographic, and systemic barriers, equipping organizations to serve diverse communities, and using sport to build skills to increase confidence and connection, we help create lasting opportunities for children and youth in Canada.

    “Jumpstart is committed to working alongside communities to help create inclusive spaces where children of all abilities can participate in sport and play,” said Stuart McReynolds, Chief Operating Officer, Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities. “Together with the City of Kingston and the Inclusive Play Project, we’re proud to support the development of the Jumpstart Inclusive Playground – a space that will help remove barriers to play and create lasting opportunities for kids to connect, belong, and thrive.”

    Shannon Park, located at 199 Wilson St., was chosen as the location for the Jumpstart Inclusive Playground due to existing accessible play equipment as well as its proximity to accessible facilities at Rideau Heights Community Centre. Featuring rubber safety surfacing and ramped play structures, the Jumpstart Inclusive Playground will allow everyone to walk or roll right onto the play structure and equipment, without the need to transfer from a mobility device. Along with safe and easy access for kids and family members, the play space offers engaging opportunities tailored to a wide range of physical abilities and sensory needs. Site amenities will also include bench seating, picnic tables, and a shade shelter within the fully fenced play space.

    “Today’s groundbreaking shows what’s possible when a community comes together around a shared vision,” says Mayor Bryan Paterson. “The Jumpstart Inclusive Playground will be a place where every child, regardless of ability, can play, connect, and feel a true sense of belonging. Thank you to the Inclusive Play Project, our partners, and the many volunteers and community members whose dedication and generosity have made this milestone possible. I look forward to returning for the official opening and seeing this space come to life for our community.”

    The budget for the construction of the Jumpstart Inclusive Playground is $1.5 million, and fundraising is currently at 92% of the goal. Thanks to the generous commitment of Tim Hortons Kingston, the Inclusive Play Project (IPP) was selected as the Spring 2026 Smile Cookie charity of choice, and IPP volunteers hope to sell enough Smile Cookies April 27-May 3 to reach the final fundraising goal. Find out more here.

    "We are beyond thrilled to officially break ground on the Jumpstart Inclusive Playground! This moment has been a long time coming, and it truly reflects the incredible support and enthusiasm of our community,” says Rachel Doornekamp, Founder, Inclusive Play Project. “We are so grateful to everyone who helped bring this vision to life, and we can’t wait to see the playground take shape and become a welcoming, inclusive space for children and families of all abilities.”

    Community Effort

    The Jumpstart Inclusive Playground would not be possible without the support of the Inclusive Play Project volunteers who paved the way to turn the idea of an inclusive playground into reality. The Jumpstart Inclusive Playground is made possible with funding from Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities. Thank you to those who have generously supported the Inclusive Play Project, including Tim Hortons Kingston, the Government of Canada’s Enabling Accessibility Fund, Kinsmen Club of Kingston, Britton Smith Foundation, Anna and Edward C. Churchill Foundation, Enhancing Access to Spaces for Everyone Grant, V2 Innovations, William James Henderson Foundation, Swyrich Corporation, Kingston Construction Association, Lawson Foundation, Rotary Clubs of Kingston & Gananoque, The Kingston Foundation for Autism, Skyline Group of Companies and Empire Life. In addition, hundreds of local children, families, businesses and organizations have held fundraisers and personally donated.

    More information about the Jumpstart Inclusive Playground can be found on Get Involved Kingston. To find out more about supporting the Inclusive Play Project with corporate sponsorship, in-kind donations and financial donations, visit its website.

    About the Inclusive Play Project

    The Inclusive Play Project is a grassroots initiative led by parents, educators, and community advocates committed to creating accessible and inclusive outdoor play spaces in Kingston. The project has built strong partnerships with local organizations and raised significant funds to support inclusive recreation in the city.


    A photo a a group of people holding shovels in front of the future playground site.Students from JG Simcoe Public School; Rachel Doornekamp, Inclusive Play Project; Amy Elgersma, City of Kingston; Mike Espey, Dan Gostlin, Mike Mercier, Canadian Tire; Mayor Bryan Paterson; Councillor Brandon Tozzo; Lori Gagnon, Jumpstart Canadian Tire Charities; Mitch Wiskel, City of Kingston; Councillor Paul Chaves; Sara Miller, City of Kingston; Ian Cholmondeley; Inclusive Play Project volunteers.



    At a special event held this morning at Shannon Park, the start of construction of the future home of the Jumpstart Inclusive Playground was celebrated. For more than three years, volunteers of the Inclusive Play Project have mobilized individuals, organizations, foundations and all levels of government to contribute to the development of this accessible playground, named the Jumpstart Inclusive Playground.

    Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities (Jumpstart) is a national charity dedicated to enabling lifelong success through access to sport and play. By removing financial, physical, geographic, and systemic barriers, equipping organizations to serve diverse communities, and using sport to build skills to increase confidence and connection, we help create lasting opportunities for children and youth in Canada.

    “Jumpstart is committed to working alongside communities to help create inclusive spaces where children of all abilities can participate in sport and play,” said Stuart McReynolds, Chief Operating Officer, Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities. “Together with the City of Kingston and the Inclusive Play Project, we’re proud to support the development of the Jumpstart Inclusive Playground – a space that will help remove barriers to play and create lasting opportunities for kids to connect, belong, and thrive.”

    Shannon Park, located at 199 Wilson St., was chosen as the location for the Jumpstart Inclusive Playground due to existing accessible play equipment as well as its proximity to accessible facilities at Rideau Heights Community Centre. Featuring rubber safety surfacing and ramped play structures, the Jumpstart Inclusive Playground will allow everyone to walk or roll right onto the play structure and equipment, without the need to transfer from a mobility device. Along with safe and easy access for kids and family members, the play space offers engaging opportunities tailored to a wide range of physical abilities and sensory needs. Site amenities will also include bench seating, picnic tables, and a shade shelter within the fully fenced play space.

    “Today’s groundbreaking shows what’s possible when a community comes together around a shared vision,” says Mayor Bryan Paterson. “The Jumpstart Inclusive Playground will be a place where every child, regardless of ability, can play, connect, and feel a true sense of belonging. Thank you to the Inclusive Play Project, our partners, and the many volunteers and community members whose dedication and generosity have made this milestone possible. I look forward to returning for the official opening and seeing this space come to life for our community.”

    The budget for the construction of the Jumpstart Inclusive Playground is $1.5 million, and fundraising is currently at 92% of the goal. Thanks to the generous commitment of Tim Hortons Kingston, the Inclusive Play Project (IPP) was selected as the Spring 2026 Smile Cookie charity of choice, and IPP volunteers hope to sell enough Smile Cookies April 27-May 3 to reach the final fundraising goal. Find out more here.

    "We are beyond thrilled to officially break ground on the Jumpstart Inclusive Playground! This moment has been a long time coming, and it truly reflects the incredible support and enthusiasm of our community,” says Rachel Doornekamp, Founder, Inclusive Play Project. “We are so grateful to everyone who helped bring this vision to life, and we can’t wait to see the playground take shape and become a welcoming, inclusive space for children and families of all abilities.”

    Community Effort

    The Jumpstart Inclusive Playground would not be possible without the support of the Inclusive Play Project volunteers who paved the way to turn the idea of an inclusive playground into reality. The Jumpstart Inclusive Playground is made possible with funding from Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities. Thank you to those who have generously supported the Inclusive Play Project, including Tim Hortons Kingston, the Government of Canada’s Enabling Accessibility Fund, Kinsmen Club of Kingston, Britton Smith Foundation, Anna and Edward C. Churchill Foundation, Enhancing Access to Spaces for Everyone Grant, V2 Innovations, William James Henderson Foundation, Swyrich Corporation, Kingston Construction Association, Lawson Foundation, Rotary Clubs of Kingston & Gananoque, The Kingston Foundation for Autism, Skyline Group of Companies and Empire Life. In addition, hundreds of local children, families, businesses and organizations have held fundraisers and personally donated.

    More information about the Jumpstart Inclusive Playground can be found on Get Involved Kingston. To find out more about supporting the Inclusive Play Project with corporate sponsorship, in-kind donations and financial donations, visit its website.

    About the Inclusive Play Project

    The Inclusive Play Project is a grassroots initiative led by parents, educators, and community advocates committed to creating accessible and inclusive outdoor play spaces in Kingston. The project has built strong partnerships with local organizations and raised significant funds to support inclusive recreation in the city.

  • The trees aren't gone, they've just moved!

    To prepare for construction on the new Jumpstart Inclusive Playground, some existing trees will be relocated to other areas within Shannon Park this fall.

    Additional tree planting at this site will occur as part of the new playground's landscape works.

    To prepare for construction on the new Jumpstart Inclusive Playground, some existing trees will be relocated to other areas within Shannon Park this fall.

    Additional tree planting at this site will occur as part of the new playground's landscape works.

  • News release: Momentum continues in fundraising campaign for Kingston’s first inclusive playground

    Following approval from City Council on April 15, the inclusive playground to be built in Shannon Park will be named the Jumpstart Inclusive Playground thanks to grant funding provided by Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities (‘Jumpstart’) and the Kingston Canadian Tire dealers. Jumpstart is a national charity that works to help youth overcome barriers to sport and play.

    “Jumpstart is an excellent community partner and has been supporting initiatives in Canada to help kids play for 20 years and we are so excited to welcome their support in Kingston,” said Amy Elgersma, Director, Recreation and Leisure Services. “The funding from this

    Following approval from City Council on April 15, the inclusive playground to be built in Shannon Park will be named the Jumpstart Inclusive Playground thanks to grant funding provided by Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities (‘Jumpstart’) and the Kingston Canadian Tire dealers. Jumpstart is a national charity that works to help youth overcome barriers to sport and play.

    “Jumpstart is an excellent community partner and has been supporting initiatives in Canada to help kids play for 20 years and we are so excited to welcome their support in Kingston,” said Amy Elgersma, Director, Recreation and Leisure Services. “The funding from this naming rights agreement is an important part of getting closer to the fundraising goal for the inclusive playground.”

    In the spring of 2023, a group of Kingston residents met with City of Kingston staff to discuss the idea of an inclusive playground. Since then, the volunteers and partners of the Inclusive Play Project have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars.

    "We are proud to help bring the Jumpstart Inclusive Playground to life in Shannon Park," said Stuart McReynolds, AVP, Programs & Advocacy, Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities. "Jumpstart is committed to creating a more inclusive Canada by developing safe and inclusive play spaces for kids of all abilities. This partnership with the City of Kingston demonstrates our dedication to building stronger communities through the power of sport and play."

    Special thanks to those individuals who have already donated to the Inclusive Play Project, and for the significant support from Kinsmen Club of Kingston, Britton Smith Foundation, V2 Innovations, Swyrich Corporation and Kingston Construction Association.

    The Inclusive Play Project continues to work tirelessly towards its fundraising goals and would greatly appreciate your help to make this playground a reality. To donate or find out more about the Inclusive Play Project, visit its website. Because playgrounds should be for everyone!

Page last updated: 15 Apr 2026, 09:26 AM