The BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Health Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the state’s largest insurer, and they’re committed to giving back to the families in the communities they serve. As part of that commitment, they are creating public spaces dedicated to promoting health and wellness – BlueCross Healthy Places. The Foundation’s first Healthy Place project is David Carnes Park, a nine-acre green space in the Whitehaven neighborhood of Memphis. Through community placemaking meetings the residents identified priorities, including a timed obstacle course, splash pad, playgrounds, picnic and seating areas and much more.
The park features dedicated play areas for ages 2-5 and 5-12 with inclusive features to ensure people of all abilities feel welcome. A nearby splash pad keeps people cool in hot weather and its zero-entry design makes it easy for everyone from young children to grandparents to join in the fun together. More intergenerational play opportunities can be found on the timed obstacle course, or in a large multi-purpose field for team sports like soccer or football. A large covered pavilion with a dozen picnic tables is located centrally for family gatherings and a great place to rest between adventures.
The park features walking paths with pockets of play activities to keep children engaged in movement, and adult fitness areas, rounding out the family experience for teens and adults and ensuring activity stops along the path are designed for all generations.
Applicable Products and Services:
- Playground equipment
- Trail stations
- Picnic Shelter
- Benches
- Tables
- Trash receptacles
- Bike Racks
- Obstacle course
- Timed 40-yard dash
- Splash pad
- Surfacing
- Sport field
- Adult fitness equipment
- Contracting/installation
- Data Services
- Community Engagement and Event Support
- Custom Theming
- 7 Principles of Inclusive Playground Design
