An Accessible Playground Helps Cortez Students Climb Higher

Not all children who attend elementary schools in Cortez can use the playgrounds because they’re not all ADA accessible. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the school district received a grant from Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO) to upgrade a playground at Manaugh Elementary—but due to increases in equipment and labor costs, the project budget ultimately exceeded the available funding. The playground remodel was on hold, and the elementary school closed before the funding was used. Thankfully, it could be repurposed at Mesa Elementary, and the LOR Foundation was able to help bridge the funding gap, meaning more Cortez students will have access to an updated, inclusive playground.