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Forest Park nature playscape to open June 2

On June 2, the Anne O’C. Albrecht Nature Playscape will officially open to the public

ST. LOUIS — We’re just two weeks away from a new playscape opening in Forest Park.

On June 2, the Anne O’C. Albrecht Nature Playscape will officially open to the public.

“We are thrilled to announce our June 2 opening date for the new Anne O’C. Albrecht Nature Playscape,” said Lesley S. Hoffarth, P.E., President and Executive Director of Forest Park Forever. “Our team is in the final stages of planting, chip-sealing the path system and more. We can’t wait to see the playscape filled with smiles this June — and for decades to come.”

What once was a 17-acre field of turf grass is now a one-of-a-kind experiential play space with natural landscapes that include native and diverse species. It was built to enable visitors, especially children, to connect with nature and engage their senses as they explore, discover, and learn.

In total, the design and build of the project cost $5 million and took nearly two years to construct.

The destination features nine distinct activity areas including a Sensory Garden, Spring, Meadow, Mounds and Wetland. It will also include a series of kid-friendly interpretive signs created by elementary students at the Biome School, Bryan Hill Elementary, Rockwood Center for Creative Learning, and Sacred Heart Villa.

Here’s a list of things you can expect at the playscape:

  • Playscape Size: 17 acres
  • Trees planted: 300
  • Shrubs planted: 700
  • Perennials Planted: 40,000
  • Boulders & Rocks: 1,500 tons, including Missouri limestone
  • Paths: 1+ miles
  • Boardwalks: 4
  • Wood Stump Steppers: 1,500+
  • Sand for Play Areas: 30 tons
  • Hand Water Pumps: 5
  • Boot-Washing Stations: 2
  • Benches: 30+ made from fallen or hazard local trees
  • Bike Racks: 7
  • Drinking Fountains: 3

You can find the playscape in the heart of Forest Park near the World’s Fair Pavilion.

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