Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley recently announced a significant achievement for the community's parks system. Crowley's office disclosed that Milwaukee County Parks received an $827,376 grant from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the National Park Service, intended to enhance the accessibility of Milwaukee's public outdoor spaces. This financial support, obtained through the Land and Water Conservation Fund, is poised to make inclusive recreation not just an aspiration, but a reality in Milwaukee County.
In partnership with The Ability Center's Moss Universal Park, the grant will especially benefit people of diverse abilities by knocking down barriers that previously impeded full enjoyment of the parks. Crowley stated, "Our parks are one of Milwaukee County’s greatest treasures, and this grant will help ensure that every person — regardless of ability — can enjoy them together." Yet, this effort isn't only about recreation; it's also a stride toward public health and inclusivity.
State Representative Robyn Vining’s remarks underscored the broader implications of the initiative. In a statement detailed by Milwaukee County's press release, Vining expressed the human dignity and public health at stake, saying, "Wisconsinites deserve parks and outdoor spaces that are accessible for everyBODY, inclusive of all abilities." This move forward aligns with Wisconsin's tradition of shared enjoyment of the state’s natural resources, hints at a broader mission to recognize and respect all individuals' rights to access public lands.
The importance of the grant isn't lost on local officials and advocates. Guy Smith, Executive Director of Milwaukee County Parks, summarized the essence of park services succinctly: "Parks are for everyone." This grant facilitates continued investment into spaces historically off-limits for some users. And Damian Buchman, Founder & Executive Director of The Ability Center, shared his enthusiasm for the project, noting, "This grant means that children, adults, and veterans of ALL abilities will be able to play together at the country’s first Universal Ballpark, on America’s first Universal Field." His words, found in Milwaukee County's press release, make clear the nationwide significance of the Milwaukee initiative.
