Barnwell inclusive playground to bring children of all abilities together

Plans to create an inclusive playground in Barnwell is moving forward, bringing six-year-old Wyatt Dluzak’s vision to life.

Wyatt, who uses a wheelchair, dreams of a place where children of all abilities can play together. His vision, along with the partnership and dedication of his mother, Alyssa Dluzak, and Barnwell City Council Member Jana Myers, has helped make the playground a reality for Wyatt and the Barnwell community.

Wyatt was born with Spina Bifida and receives physical and occupational therapy. He loves music, dancing and spending time outdoors with his two older siblings. At traditional playgrounds, however, physical barriers and hard-to-access equipment can leave him watching from the sidelines.

“His wheelchair never stops him from having a fun time,” said his mother, Alyssa Dluzak. “But unlike many children, something as simple as playing at the park does not come as easy to him. Most playgrounds were not designed with children like Wyatt in mind.”

Seeing those barriers at the existing park, Alyssa began advocating for a playground where Wyatt and other children with disabilities could play alongside their friends and siblings. Jana Myers has worked alongside Alyssa and Wyatt for years to help bring their vision for an inclusive playground to life.

“Moments like swinging, rolling, or playing side by side with friends may seem small to many people, but to Wyatt it represents freedom, confidence, and belonging,” Alyssa said. “Instead of being the child who sits and watches, Wyatt would finally be the child who participates.”

The proposed GameTime playground is intended to offer accessible play opportunities and a shared space for children with and without disabilities to make memories together.

“As a mom of a child with disabilities, I know how meaningful it is to see your child have a place where they can play, belong, and simply be a kid without barriers standing in the way. I’m incredibly thankful for the people who listened, believed in this vision, and worked alongside me to help make it a reality. Knowing that this playground will give so many children the opportunity to play, make memories, and feel included means more to me than I could ever put into words," said Alyssa.

Community members and organizations have joined Alyssa in supporting a more accessible place to play for Barnwell families. For Wyatt, that would mean more chances to take part in the everyday experiences he now has to watch from the sidelines.

Further details about the project, including installation, construction and grand-opening updates, will be shared as plans progress.

About the City of Barnwell, SC

Incorporated in 1829, the City of Barnwell serves as the historic and civic heart of Barnwell County. Known as the "Gateway to the Low Country," Barnwell blends its rich heritage—exemplified by its iconic 1858 vertical sundial—with progressive community development, outdoor recreation at Lake Edgar Brown, and a business-friendly environment. Barnwell remains dedicated to providing prompt, professional municipal services while fostering a safe, tight-knit community for its residents and visitors. 

About Cunningham Recreation

Since 1966, Cunningham Recreation has provided the industry with the best commercial park and playground equipment, outdoor recreation solutions, and inclusive play environments. Working with communities, schools, municipalities and other organizations throughout the region, Cunningham Recreation helps create spaces that encourage active play, connection, and meaningful experiences for people of all ages and abilities.