Austin Kent Ellis Recognized for Implementing Evidence Based Design
As part of the Texas Recreation and Parks Society (TRAPS) Statewide Healthy Play & Recreation Initiative, Austin Kent Ellis Park joins Network of Best Practice Sites to Receive Recognition and Outcomes Data. PlayCore’s Center for Outreach, Research and Education (CORE) awarded its National Demonstration Site® Designation for thoughtfully aligning with evidence-based design best practices to promote:
- 7 Principles of Inclusive Playground Design: inclusive play for all abilities.
- Play On!: youth physical activity.
Multiple Designations: “National Demonstration Sites exemplify evidence-based best practices in design and implementation, support health-related initiatives, and provide meaningful ways for community stakeholders to gather data about the sites’ impact on the community. or turning research into practice as a designated site of excellence,” said Jennie Sumrell, PlayCore Director of Education.
Austin Kent Ellis will be listed on the PlayCore National Demonstration Site Map at playcore.com/nds/map. As a National Demonstration Site, CORE’s Data Service Lab will be working with City of Lewisville Parks and Recreation to provide data translation reports on this site’s contribution to overall Community Vitality. Visitors are encouraged to participate in the research by scanning the QR Code on the National Demonstration Site sign. To learn more about turning research into practice, visit playcore.com/nds.
Upcoming Improvements:
- There will be a new 10' park sign as well as a rules sign. The sign is estimated to be installed by the end of Sept. 2024
- An additional bench around the playground area
- More trees
- More picnic tables and trash cans
Other Research: In partnership with UNT AERI Ambient Heat Temperature monitors have been installed at Austin Kent Ellis and Iris Lane Parks. These monitors will help us track and analyze temperature differences between pour-in-place and Turf fall zones. This long-term study aims to enhance future playground development, ensuring safer and cooler play areas for our kids.
