Playgrounds with Purpose: Accessibility and Inclusion Shine in Blackstone
Last year, something special opened in the heart of Blackstone—and it continues to make a lasting impact today. With the recent transformation of Roosevelt Park and Turbesi Park, Blackstone has stepped confidently into the future, offering inclusive, thoughtfully designed playgrounds that are drawing attention from families near and far. And while it’s easy to see slides, swings, and climbing structures, the real story is about accessibility, community, and what’s possible when a town believes in itself.
Inclusive Design, Thoughtful Details
Blackstone’s two newly renovated playgrounds—Roosevelt Park and Turbesi Park—each bring their own charm and strengths to the community, with inclusive design at the heart of both projects. Both playgrounds were constructed by Ultiplay Parks & Playgrounds, Inc. using equipment from industry leaders Playworld and Berliner Seilfabrik, ensuring a high-quality and inclusive play experience for all children.
Roosevelt Park Playground, completed in 2024, features a fully fenced-in layout and poured-in rubber surfacing throughout — designed to provide a safe, accessible environment for everyone. This space isn’t just new—it’s carefully crafted with features that support children of all abilities. The space includes wide ramps to elevated components, an accessible swing, sound-play elements, and the standout Aeroglider—a dual-sided, wheelchair-friendly gliding bench that invites group play. Conveniently, the playground also has direct access from the Blackstone River Greenway, making it an ideal stop for families walking, running, or biking along the scenic trail.
Turbesi Park Playground, named in honor of former town official Angelo Turbesi, underwent its first major renovation since 1997. The newly upgraded space includes a fully enclosed play area, updated structures, partial poured-in rubber surfacing, and expanded seating and picnic areas for families.
One especially thoughtful addition: a roller slide, designed to ensure children with cochlear implants can enjoy sliding safely. Plastic slides can generate static electricity, which may interfere with or damage these sensitive devices. The roller slide, to be installed in May 2025, eliminates that risk—making sure every child can experience the thrill of the slide.
Shared inclusive features at both playgrounds:
- A poured-in rubber surfacing for smooth, safe movement for strollers, wheelchairs, and anyone who may need extra stability
- Wide ramps to elevated play components, allowing children with mobility challenges to access multiple levels of the playground
- An accessible swing that provides supportive, comfortable motion for all children
- Sound-play components that offer sensory-friendly auditory engagement for children who thrive with multi-sensory experiences
- A fully fenced perimeter, offering peace of mind for caregivers and added safety for children who may tend to wander
- A communication board, helping non-verbal or speech-delayed children express themselves and interact with peers
All of these features ensure that Blackstone playgrounds isn’t just a place to play—it’s a place where every child can be part of the experience, and every family can feel welcome.
Roosevelt Park
15 St. Paul st., Blackstone, MA 01504
Turbesi Park
667 Rathbun St., Blackstone MA 01504
Thoughtfully Designed, Built for Everyone
These playgrounds aren’t just inclusive—they’re also thoughtfully designed for family use and peace of mind.
- Open daily from dawn to dusk
- Play areas designed for ages 2–12
- Bike racks and on-site parking at both locations
- Free Little Libraries donated by community member Arissa Boucher
- Video surveillance at both parks (Roosevelt Park is also adjacent to the police station)
- Rules for a clean, safe space: no pets, food, drinks, or smoking inside the fenced areas
Made Possible by the People of Blackstone
These playgrounds became a reality thanks to the commitment of Blackstone’s town leadership and its residents. The Board of Selectmen, the Parks and Recreation Commission, and other local advocates pushed for inclusive upgrades, sought out grants, and stayed focused on creating something special.
Equally important: the voters of Blackstone, who supported the vision at the Annual Town Meeting. Their belief in these projects helped turn ideas into real, tangible progress—proof that when a town comes together, it can create something extraordinary.
A Destination Worth Visiting
With the Roosevelt Park Playground located right alongside the scenic Blackstone River Greenway, families can now enjoy a full day outdoors—ride bikes along the trail, walk or run the path, or enter the playground directly from the Greenway via a convenient access point. Come by and play with the kids, have a picnic by the parks, and enjoy the charm of the surrounding area.
These upgraded parks aren’t just an asset for Blackstone families—they’re a draw for the entire region. Families from surrounding towns are encouraged to visit, explore, and discover everything Blackstone has to offer: family-friendly restaurants, local farms, unique local shops, and outdoor adventures that make this small town feel big-hearted and full of possibility.
An Invitation to Play—and Belong
Roosevelt and Turbesi Parks now offer more than recreation. They offer peace of mind, safety, and a powerful message: every child matters, and every family deserves a place where they feel included.
These parks reflect a vision of community that puts people first. Whether you’re a local resident or just visiting, the playgrounds are ready. The gates are open. And everyone is welcome.
