Upper Onondaga Park

We worked in tandem with the Syracuse City Parks Department to design a nature-themed playscape to replace a much-used wooden playground at Upper Onondaga Park.

This picturesque park, located in the Strathmore section of the city, is situated on Hiawatha Lake. The city was looking for a playground design that would enhance this beautiful park.

Our design is barrier-free and includes ramps, as well as our inclusive Avalanche Slide and Alta Glider, so all abilities have been considered. We even included a separate play structure for the 2-5 year olds as well as our Generation swing that allows a parent and toddler to swing together. Fun for the entire family!

Design Highlights

Age-Appropriate Zones: Separate play areas cater to children aged 2–5 and 5–12, featuring age-specific equipment to ensure safety and engagement.​

Inclusive Play Features: The playground incorporates accessible elements such as a wheelchair-accessible glider, an inclusive swing seat, and sensory panels, promoting play for children of all abilities.​

Diverse Equipment

8 Slides:

• Chameleon Slide
• Chameleon Spiral Slide
• L Slides (2)
• Groove Slides (2)
• Hollow Log Slide
• Avalanche Slide

 9 Climbing Opportunities:

• Aquarius Rope/Net Climber
• Nature Canyon Climber
• Nature Tree-O-Climber
• Nature Sloped Climbing Wall (2)
• Nature Bridge
• Tot Rock Climber
• Trap Door Climber
• Wavy Wedge Wall Walker

23 Other Activities:

• ½ Calypso 2 Drum Panel
• 4 Bay Arch Swings with 8 total seats (4 Belt Seats, 2 Tot Seats, 1 Generation Seat, 1 Inclusive Seat)
• Alta Glide Flex
• Post Mounted Bell
• Eagle Family Play Panel
• Fire Truck Wheel Panel
• Fun Fone Pair
• Sensory Panel Hex/Triangle
• Sensory Panel Oval/Square
• Lookout Towers (2)
• Pilot Panel with 2 Wheels
• Post Mounted Steering Wheel
• Wall with Wheel

Total of 40 Play Activities!

Community Impact

The redesigned playground has been well-received by the community, providing an inclusive environment that encourages interaction among children of all abilities. The project earned the Outstanding Design Award from the Central New York Recreation & Parks Society, recognizing its excellence in inclusive design.