Photo Credit: Bruce Dees & Associates and Metro Parks Tacoma
In the diverse neighborhood of South Tacoma, Wash., a once-deserted swath of land has made a real splash and become one of the area’s biggest summer attractions. On a sunny day, kids pack the new sprayground at the South End Recreation and Adventure (SERA) campus for a chance to experience the bucket dump, wade through the flash stream, or splash in the various timed fountains.
Located in the heart of Metro Parks Tacoma and serving a population of more than 208,000, the new park has seen several changes over the years. Historically a wetland, the site was filled in the late 1950s to construct a middle school. Over time, the school moved and the site was neglected.
The neighborhood surrounding the SERA Campus is a low-income community. Prior to the campus’ construction, few public play areas existed. For Metro Parks, it was vital to create a free facility with multiple amenities for the community.