Burlington is taking recreation to at-risk communities with an up-fitted cargo van that travels the city to offer structured play for children and families.
The Park & Play van was made possible by $50,000 from Impact Alamance. It’s equipped with fitness gear, interactive games, crafts, and activities to promote movement, wellness, and play, according to the city.
“The Park & Play will provide an opportunity to increase access to physical activity,” the city says. “Because it is mobile, it can meet the community where they are, providing programs, activities, and equipment focusing on active play and physical activity.”
The van began operating in June. Currently, it’s not available for community events but is reserved for Burlington Recreation & Parks-sponsored events and programs. It might appear at B-Town Events or could pop up at a playground or park, the city says.
Through Aug. 14, the formal schedule is:
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- Earl-Gerow Homes: 1–2:30 p.m. Mondays
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- Tucker Street Apartments: 3–4:30 p.m. Mondays
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- Woodrail Acres: 1–2:30 p.m. Tuesdays
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- Maple Brooks: 3–4:30 p.m. Tuesdays
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- Pate Homes: 1–2:30 p.m. Wednesdays
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- Beaumont Avenue Apartments: 3–4:30 p.m. Wednesdays
The schedule was created using information from last year’s Youth Solution Pop-up Parties to help at-risk communities with perpetrators and victims of violence 18 and younger.
