Inclusivity was the focus at the at Hoyt Sullivan Playground ribbon cutting ceremony on November 17.

By The Times Staff

The inclusive swings ribbon cutting at Hoyt Sullivan Playground on November 17 brought community members together to celebrate the completion of an important accessibility project.

There are 10 new inclusive swings at playgrounds across Somerville, which increases the percentage of city parks with inclusive swings from 39 percent to 83 percent. The swings are designed for children ages 2 to 12.

“We are thrilled with another step forward to increase diversity and inclusion,” said Adrienne Pomeroy, ADA Coordinator at the Somerville Commission for Persons with Disabilities.

The ribbon cutting was held for 1 of the 10 new swings initiated and funded by the SCPD and led by the Somerville Park and Urban Forestry Division in collaboration with the city’s Department of Racial and Social Justice and the Department of Public Works.

“While I know a swing might seem like a small thing, the truth is it isn’t,” said Mayor Katjana Ballantyne.

Somerville has 23 playgrounds with swings. Before this project only 9 playgrounds had at least one inclusive option. Now, 19 of the playgrounds have inclusive swings.

“This is what progress looks like,” said Mayor Ballantyne. We’re moving barriers, increasing access, and making sure every child and every family share in the joy of play.”

The City of Somerville is committed to designing public spaces that work for everyone, the mayor added.

Holly Simione, chair at the SCPD, said that their budget for the project initially started at $5,000, but was increased to nearly $25,000.

Caregivers of Somerville children who require a belt harness may contact Meg Koglin at mkoglin@somervillema.gov or by calling 311.