Regina Launches Grant Program to Fund Accessible Playgrounds Across City
The City of Regina has officially launched a new grant program designed to help fund the creation and enhancement of accessible playgrounds throughout the municipality. This initiative aims to offset costs for non-profit organizations working to build inclusive outdoor spaces where children of all abilities can engage in safe, barrier-free play.
Creating Inclusive Play Spaces
"Accessible playgrounds create spaces where users of all abilities can take part in safe, barrier-free play," said Diana Burton, Regina's director of recreation and cultural services, in an official news release. "This new grant program reflects the City's commitment to improving accessibility by supporting community partners in creating inclusive outdoor spaces in the city."
The program comes after the city approved comprehensive updated accessibility benchmarks for public parks in July 2025 under the municipal Accessible Playground Design Standard. The long-term vision is to ensure that most Regina residents have an accessible playground within 800 metres of their homes.
Funding and Application Details
The city's 2026-27 budget has allocated $160,000 specifically for this grant program. Non-profit organizations can apply to receive up to 30 percent of their project's total cost covered, with a maximum grant amount of $80,000 per project. However, applicants must demonstrate that they have secured at least 40 percent of required funding from other sources before submitting their application.
The application window will remain open until April 9, and the city is hosting a virtual information session on March 12 at 6 p.m. to review eligibility requirements, funding limits, and design standards for interested organizations. Projects that receive grant funding must be completed by June 1, 2028.
Political Advocacy and Community Impact
The initiative is being championed by Ward 5 Councillor Sarah Turnbull, who was elected in 2024 and has been a vocal advocate for accessible playgrounds since her daughter Blake, who uses a wheelchair, was a baby. Turnbull's personal connection to the issue has helped drive the program forward, emphasizing the importance of creating play spaces that accommodate children with diverse mobility needs.
This grant program represents a significant step toward making Regina's public spaces more inclusive and accessible for all residents, particularly children with communication and cognitive disabilities who may benefit from specially designed play equipment and environments.
