Nestled along the Tennessee-Alabama state line sits Huntland, a small, rural town with a population of just over 800. Community members wanted to install an inclusive playground for years, and after raising money locally, they applied for a grant from the BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Foundation. Out of more than 30 proposals considered by BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Health Foundation, Huntland was selected to join Chattanooga and Memphis as a BlueCross Healthy Place.
The BlueCross Healthy Place at Huntland City Park is situated in the center of town and features a new inclusive playground designed by GameTime and Cunningham Recreation. At the community's request, there is also plenty of seating for families to rest, relax, and socialize. GameTime also constructed a new basketball court with bleachers, outdoor fitness equipment for adults, and a new walking track.
To round out the site, GameTime and Cunningham Recreation added additional parking, drinking fountains, grills, picnic tables, and sway benches.
Access for All
Due to limited resources and funding, it’s difficult for small towns like Huntland to cater to the needs of everyone in their community. Huntland community leaders were determined to turn their dream of an inclusive play and recreation space into reality. With the help of BlueCross Blue Shield of Tennessee Foundation and GameTime's resources and incluive play products, they did exactly that.
In addition to traditional playground and recreation equipment, Huntland City Park features accessible equipment designed for children of all abilities. Because the park is designed using best practice research, it is designated a National Demonstration Site by PlayCore. The new BlueCross Healthy Place also includes multiple additional features to ensure visitors of all ages can enjoy the space like an upgraded pavilion for social gatherings and community celebrations.
Creating Spaces that Bring Neighbors Together
BlueCross Healthy Places demonstrate a lasting commitment by Blue Cross Blue Shield Foundation of Tennessee to give back to the people and communities they serve. GameTime is proud to partner with BCBST to provide neighbors with spaces for connection and healthy activity.
Anyone interested in bringing a BlueCross Healthy Place to their city can apply online. Applicants will select from preconfigured designs, depending on their community's needs and desired focus. Each design includes accessible elements and will provide fun, healthy activity for visitors of any age. If you want to learn more about inclusive play for your community, contact the GameTime representative in in your neighborhood.
