New equipment and rubber surface provides recreation for kids of all abilities
ATHENS-The City of Athens and Greater Limestone County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the All Kids Dugout on Tuesday, Aug. 30, at 2 p.m.
This was to celebrate completion of a project funded in part through 
ADECA’s Land and Water Conservation Fund grant of $50,000. The City of Athens contributed the $50,000 match with cash and in-kind work. Spencer Durm and Boy Scout Troop 240 assisted as part of Durm’s Eagle Scout project, volunteering 138 hours to pressure wash the fence and add mulch.
Morell Engineering sponsored the project with a $5,000 donation.
This grant and community support allowed the city to install rubber surfacing as part of the playground, allowing for easier wheelchair access, and to add equipment for children of all abilities. The new equipment includes puzzles accessible to children in wheelchairs, a merry-go-all, expression swings where parents and children can swing while facing each 
other, a wheelchair swing, rock climbing wall and climbing trees.
Chamber President Jennifer Williamson thanked city leaders for putting emphasis on these recreational enhancements.
The City of Athens and Athens Parks and Recreation will continue to strive to enhance recreational opportunities for the whole community.
Athens Cemetery, Parks and Recreation Manager Ben Wiley said he already has a proposal for phases 2 and 3 at All Kids which would include additional equipment such as a swing that accommodates children with autism. Mayor Ronnie Marks said he will work with Wiley to present the proposal to the Athens City Council for funding consideration.
Mayor Ronnie Marks
“We are creating an all-inclusive playground where children of all abilities can play and interact with their peers,” Wiley said.
Readers of The News-Courier recently voted the All Kids Dugout as the Best Kid’s Attraction in Limestone County.
All Kids Dugout is located at the Sportsplex on U.S. 31 near the Interstate 65 exit. The original Dugout was created in 1997 thanks to a community project overseen by Athens Jaycees. The original playground cost was $160,000 and was paid for by donations from individuals and local corporate contributions.
“Volunteers worked to give us the Dugout, and we are working to add to that playground so that it continues to be a wonderful attraction for our community,” Marks said.
