Just in time for the summer season, Dutchess County has officially opened a brand-new accessible playground at Bowdoin Park in Wappingers Falls, offering an inclusive space for children of all abilities to enjoy.
Community Input Shaped the Playground Design
The project began nearly a year ago, in August 2024, when Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino invited residents to participate in a public survey to help select the final design. The community was asked to choose between two fully accessible playground concepts, both of which aimed to enhance the park’s offerings without replacing the main playground.
Executive Serino emphasized the importance of public engagement at the time, stating:
“We’re excited to have two fantastic and accessible options to consider for another great playground at Bowdoin Park in the Town of Poughkeepsie to be built near our soccer field.”
More than 1,400 residents responded to the survey, providing input that directly influenced the final outcome.
Official Opening in July 2025
On Tuesday, July 8th, 2025, the newly designed playground was officially opened to the public. Located within the scenic Bowdoin Park, which spans 310 acres and overlooks the Hudson River, the new playground is a major addition to the area’s recreational amenities.
According to Dutchess County officials, the new play space includes over 8,000 square feet of cushioned “pour and play” surface. The design is inspired by the park’s natural environment and features areas that resemble rivers, streams, and land—celebrating the rich ecological history of the region.
Inclusive Features for All Children
Accessibility and inclusivity are at the core of the playground’s design. Some of the standout features include:
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Adaptable swings
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Universal carousel
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Sensory play equipment
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Wheelchair-accessible ramps integrated into the structures
Dutchess County Parks Director Brian Coons expressed the department’s enthusiasm for the new facility:
“We are proud to bring this new accessible playground option to families of all abilities to enjoy and are grateful to the County Executive and County Legislature for the continued support of our Parks programming.”
More Enhancements on the Way
County officials also noted that additional improvements are planned for the surrounding area. These include new landscaping, extra seating options, and the installation of a shared shade tree to offer relief from the summer sun.
In addition to the playground, splash pads and spray grounds at both Bowdoin Park and Wilcox Memorial Park are now open for the summer season, offering more opportunities for family-friendly outdoor fun.
Explore Dutchess County’s Park System
With the addition of this new playground, Dutchess County continues to strengthen its reputation as a destination for outdoor recreation. The county operates eight parks throughout the region, including:
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Bowdoin Park
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Wilcox Memorial Park
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Quiet Cove Riverfront Park
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Harlem Valley Rail Trail
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William R. Steinhaus Dutchess Rail Trail
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Upper Landing Park
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Heritage Financial Park (formerly Dutchess Stadium)
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Northside Line
These parks offer year-round access to trails, water activities, picnic areas, and other amenities for residents and visitors alike.
The new playground at Bowdoin Park is already drawing praise from families and accessibility advocates, marking a significant step forward in making outdoor spaces more inclusive for everyone in the community.
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