Winona Lake Limitless Park is a model for inclusive play
- Name of Firm: Jones Petrie Rafinski
- Name of Project: Winona Lake Limitless Park
- Location: 1590 Park Avenue, Winona Lake, IN 46590
- Size of Project: 1.5 Acres
Limitless Park was thoughtfully and strategically designed to be fun and accessible. Every element of the playground was carefully designed to accommodate individuals with physical disabilities, sensory sensitivities, and other special needs.
Winona Lake Limitless Park is more than a playground—it’s a space where people of all ages and abilities can come together to play, connect, and enjoy the outdoors. Designed with inclusivity at its core, this universally accessible park embraces the beauty of its natural surroundings while fostering a sense of belonging for all. Located in Winona Lake, Ind., it has become a beacon of community engagement and innovative design, earning its reputation as a place “where fun has no limits.”
A Therapeutic Approach
The journey to create Winona Lake Limitless Park began in 2011 with the goal of developing a space that prioritizes accessibility and community involvement. By 2014, planning and design efforts were well underway. Recognizing the importance of user input, the design team collaborated with physical and occupational therapists, caretakers, teachers, and parents from Kosciusko County. These conversations provided invaluable insights into the diverse needs of potential visitors and helped identify barriers to accessibility and inclusion that might have otherwise gone unnoticed.
By integrating stakeholder feedback, the park’s design incorporates therapeutic elements throughout various play components, ensuring meaningful experiences for individuals with physical and cognitive challenges. This dedication to inclusivity extends beyond standard ADA-accessibility requirements, making the park truly unique.
The park features a playground equipped with innovative elements such as an expression swing, allowing parents and toddlers to swing together, and the K21 Splash Pad, a recirculating water play area with barrier-free access. The splash pad features a vibrant water tunnel and uses filtered, recycled water for sustainability. Additionally, an existing restroom facility was renovated for full accessibility, and a fire pit and beach area were seamlessly integrated into the overall design.
Beyond the playground and splash pad, the park includes wide, accessible pathways and wheelchair-friendly picnic areas, creating a welcoming space for families to relax and enjoy outdoor recreation together.
Unique Construction Challenges
The project was separated into two phases. Phase 1 presented significant engineering challenges due to the park’s location, less than 100 feet from the shores of Winona Lake. A high water table and approximately 25 feet of soft muck soil beneath the surface posed difficulties for constructing a splash pad. To address this, a geotechnical investigation revealed a stable sandy layer below the muck. Using data, the design team implemented a deep foundation system with treated timber piles driven into the sandy soil to support the splash pad’s weight. Reinforced concrete-grade beams and pipe caps, located over the driven piles, were also constructed to distribute the load effectively. Additionally, a water-reservoir tank was engineered to resist buoyancy forces within the unstable muck soil. These strategic engineering solutions ensured the splash pad’s stability and long-term functionality.
Winona Lake Limitless Park officially opened in 2015 with the completion of Phase 1. Over the years, it has grown into a destination park for families across Northern Indiana, setting a precedent for inclusive recreational spaces. Phase 2 of the project broke ground in April 2024, marking the final step in a decade-long journey to create an environment where everyone, regardless of ability, can experience the joy of outdoor play.
The final phase introduced additional play elements designed to encourage safe risk-taking, cooperation, and problem-solving. Features include a large crawl tunnel, climbing boulders, hillside slides, and relaxation areas for sensory relief. Other key additions include a wheelchair-accessible spinner, a cozy dome for sensory development, and a rope climber, further enhancing the park’s natural play aesthetic.
The realization of Winona Lake Limitless Park was made possible through a combination of public and private donations, alongside grant funding. Major contributions included a $300,000 grant from the K21 Health Foundation and a $500,000 grant from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF).
Reflecting on the park’s impact, Holly Hummitch, Parks Department and Senior Center Director for the Town of Winona Lake, says, “The vision for Winona Lake Limitless Park has always been inclusion and unity. Seeing those who would traditionally be sidelined—whether on the water or the playground—engage and play with their peers is incredibly rewarding. This park is a recreation destination where residents of Winona Lake and beyond can feel welcomed, safe, considered, and included.”
With its thoughtful design and deep community roots, Winona Lake Limitless Park stands as a testament to the power of inclusive public spaces. It exemplifies how collaboration, innovation, and dedication can transform a simple playground into a vibrant, welcoming destination for all.
