Project Overview
The Franklin Square Elementary playground in Baltimore, MD holds a special place in playground history. Installed in May 2023, it stands as the first project in KaBOOM!’s groundbreaking “25 in 5” initiative. That initiative aims to end playspace inequity in 25 communities over five years. In addition, it prioritizes kid-designed play spaces in cities where children often lack access to safe, quality outdoor play environments. As a result, this playground carries real meaning — for the school, the neighborhood, and the broader movement for play equity. Students at Franklin Square helped shape this space. Their voices drove the design. That is what makes it truly one of a kind.
Franklin Square Elementary Playground Features
The Franklin Square Elementary playground serves students ages 5–12. It packs a wide variety of physical and sensory experiences into a compact footprint. First, the Landscape Structures dual Gemini SlideWinder2® slides give multiple kids the thrill of sliding at once. Furthermore, overhead events including the LolliLadder™, Overhead Trekker™ Ladder, and 90° Horizontal Ladder challenge kids to build upper body strength and coordination. The ReviWheel® Spinner adds vestibular stimulation and spinning fun for one or more riders at once. Pod Climbers® challenge balance and agility. They keep kids moving in new directions every visit.
Sensory Play & Community Impact
In addition to the active play features, sensory panels enrich the experience. The Bongo Reach Panel engages kids’ musical instincts. Meanwhile, the Gear Panel and Kaleidospin Panel® offer unique mental and visual challenges. The Wobble Pod® Bouncer and 4-Seat Seesaw round out the experience with cooperative, social play.
Together, these elements create an engaging environment that fosters physical development and inclusive play. This is exactly what KaBOOM! and Landscape Structures set out to build — a space where every child belongs.
For more school playground inspiration, browse our featured playground projects or contact us to start planning a space for your community.
LOCATION
Baltimore, MD