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CENTRAL La. (WAFB) - There will be a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the first-ever all-inclusive playground for children with disabilities in East Baton Rouge Parish on Monday, March 18.

The Central School System, Central City Autism Awareness, and the City of Central are inviting the public to the grand opening of the Taylor Conrad Memorial Playground at 10 a.m. It’s located in front of Central Intermediate School. The address is 12636 Sullivan Road.

Officials said over $650,000 has been invested into the large adaptive space through a state grant and private donations.

The playground will become a welcomed addition to the recreational attractions of the city, the only one of its kind in the parish.

Safety and imaginative play were the most important factors in the choice of design elements, educational features, and building materials selected.

Recreational equipment designed specifically for the playground welcoming students and the public at Central Intermediate School includes “Kensley’s Playhouse,” wheelchair ramps and wheelchair swing, a trail and games with signage also in Braille, a large colorful xylophone, among many other colorful therapeutic options.

Safety and imaginative play were the most important factors in the choice of design elements, educational features, and building materials selected.

Taylor Conrad was a Central High School graduate who was determined to become a special needs teacher after his USMC service concluded. He died in service to his nation. The playground is being named in Conrad’s honor for his dedication to his volunteerism in the school system to special needs students and military service.