Kayla's Playground in Franklin reopens after surface renovations

 

FRANKLIN, Wis. (CBS 58) – After one month closed for renovation, a fully inclusive playground in Franklin is now back open to the public.

Kayla's Playground at Franklin Woods Nature Center now has a newly-replaced 12,000 sq. ft. specialized cushion play surface.

The playground opened in 2015, honoring Kayla Runte, a young girl with cerebral palsy who passed away in 2012.

Her mom, Shelly, formed "Kayla's Krew" with a mission to build this special playground.

Along with the cushioned surface, it has accessible playground equipment, including a Liberty swing for wheelchair users.

Monday morning, Shelly Runte and city leaders held a blessing of the playground for its reopening, by a Father from her home parish.

"That was really special to me, because in 2012 after Kayla passed away, I felt that tap on my shoulder after hearing a hymn in mass to go make a difference," Runte said.

Kayla's Playground recently partnered with Franklin Public Schools to create ambassadors that welcome families to the park daily and enforce safety.

They're looking for more organizations that would like to join the ambassador program.

Click here to learn more.

CBS 58