Newest ‘all abilities’ playground and park opens in Altoona

ALTOONA, Pa. (WTAJ) — Altoona’s newest all-abilities playground and park is officially open.

On Wednesday, city officials, parents, and children attended a ceremony to open and dedicate the space. It’s called Garden Heights Park and is located at 205 Lowell Avenue.

The planning phase for the project started around 2 years ago.

“It’s so worth it to see it come together. I know so many people were helping this plan. I know so many people were working together to make this happen. But just seeing the end product of all of the kids enjoying it and having a good time really makes it worth it,” Shasta Langenbacher, President of the Booker T. Washington Revitalization Corporation, said.

The Central Blair Recreation and Park Commission in cooperation with the Booker T. Washington Revitalization Corporation and a number of other sponsors worked to complete the park.

“Having a safe, welcoming park in the neighborhood is really important to help build community. Seeing everybody coming together and playing and having the kids enjoying the safe space as well as a welcoming place for parents, grandparents and the Journey Center and any other group that may be utilizing this. We’re seeing in studies that it’s important to have a safe place for people to gather,” Langenbacher said.

The Booker T. Washington Corporation will also sponsor Altoona Block Parties from June to August for community members and families to meet each other. The block parties will be free and held at various locations throughout the city from 5-7 p.m.

• June 5 – Jefferson Park (118 4th Avenue)
• June 20 – Grove Memorial Park (2300 6th Ave)
• June 27 – Garden Heights Park (205 Lowell Avenue)
• July 15 – Iuzzolino Park (2516 Maple Avenue)
• August 8 – Prospect Park (112 S 15th Street)
• August 20 – Booker T. Washington Park (1010 19th Street)

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The corporation is asking anyone who will attend a block party to leave pets at home. Properly credentialed service animals will be welcome.

For more information on the summer block parties, visit their website .

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