Photo: Doug Hinebaugh, Courtesy of the Ability Center of Northwest Ohio
Lincoln Elementary School served the local community for nearly 100 years. When it was eventually closed and demolished as part of Bryan City Schools’ plan to upgrade its facilities, many wondered how the empty lot left behind could be repurposed to serve the community once again.
Thanks to the advocacy of former BCS teacher, Paula Kline, the location that was once home to Lincoln Elementary School is now home to Lincoln Park and an inclusive playground. The playground was made possible through a partnership between Bryan Parks & Recreation, Bryan City Schools and the Bryan Area Foundation.
Opened in June of 2024, Lincoln Park offers a place where families of all physical, mental and social abilities can play, learn and grow together. The inclusive playground features ramp entry points, a poured-in-place surface, braille and picture communication boards, a flush-to-ground merry-go-round, a zipline, expression swings and more. Those who once had to travel an hour or more to find an accessible play structure that could accommodate them and/or their children can now find that accessibility right here in Bryan.
While construction on the playground is complete, visitors to the park will notice additional projects are ongoing. In the near future, Lincoln Park will also have onsite restroom facilities and two pavilions.
Located just three blocks from Bryan’s historic downtown square, Lincoln Park is a welcoming destination for both residents and visitors alike. Be sure a stop at 301 East Butler Street is on your to-do list the next time you are in town!
Anyone interested in financially supporting this project can do so through the Bryan Area Foundation.