Thursday morning, March 22nd, fueled by free coffee, the dreams of children, and a surging spirit of American community, over 100 volunteers and friends of the St. Elmo Community Playground will come together at St. Elmo Park to begin the construction of a unique and educational playscape.  Designed by New Hampshire-based Learning Structures, Inc, the St. Elmo Community Playground will incorporate the ideas and creative suggestions shared by area children and the playground committee.

Learning Structures met with children and community members last winter for a Planning Day.  The design ideas that were gathered were then transformed into a magical playground that celebrates St. Elmo’s unique heritage.  One of the focal structures will be the Lookout Mountain Tree Fort, built around hilltop trees and incorporating slides, a climbing wall, and other physical play events.  The Incline Rail Car Slide will descend a 40-foot long path down the park’s hill.  A challenge course with a Zip Line will provide countless hours of play, and a tot-lot with age appropriate structures will provide 2 to 5 year-olds with their own fun.

St. Elmo Playground Coordinator, Heidi Chapin, continues to plan for the 4-day community-built event.  “So many people have worked hard to make these dreams a reality for St. Elmo children and families, “ states Chapin with a smile, “and we are looking forward to working hand-in-hand with community volunteers to build it.  I hope everyone will consider coming out to join us.”

Volunteers, donations, and other services for next week’s playground construction are still needed.  Visit the playground web site at  St-elmo.org or contact Maria Cardillo, Volunteer Coordinator, at 423-821-7317.

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For more information:

Josiah Roe, PR Playground Coordinator
423-313-6097
josiah@coptix.com