McKinney, Texas partners with Project Playground
The City of McKinney has announced a bold, collaborative effort with Project Playground to repurpose beloved play structures from local parks for use in developing countries. This initiative builds on McKinney’s commitment to safe, creative play while extending its impact well beyond city limits. By reimagining and relocating equipment from Inspiration Park and Ash Woods, the partnership aims to create sustainable, child-friendly play spaces where they are most needed.
From local parks to emergency playgrounds
Inspiration Park and Ash Woods have long served as community hubs where children can climb, swing, and explore. Through careful deconstruction, refurbishment, and transport, the City and Project Playground plan to convert these structures into modular components suitable for new environments. The goal is not just to move equipment; it is to ensure that the play experience remains safe, engaging, and culturally appropriate as it shifts to communities facing limited resources.
Why repurpose matters
Repurposing park structures is a practical, cost-effective approach to expanding play opportunities in underserved regions. By reusing high-quality, well-maintained equipment, communities can establish durable play spaces that support physical activity, social interaction, and imaginative play for years to come. McKinney’s initiative also highlights the importance of philanthropy, municipal collaboration, and responsible reuse in global development work.
Impact on children and communities
Project Playground estimates that the repurposed structures will create safe places to play for more than 6,000 children, with potential to reach many more as projects scale. In developing countries, safe, supervised play opportunities contribute to healthier kids, stronger communities, and the formation of social networks that support education, gender equity, and community resilience. The McKinney partnership emphasizes ongoing training for local caregivers and community leaders to maintain equipment and ensure safe use over time.
How the process works
The project follows a careful, phased process: auditing existing playgrounds for safety, selecting components suitable for relocation, refurbishing where needed, and coordinating shipment and installation with partner organizations on the ground. The approach prioritizes durability, adaptability to different climates, and cultural relevance to the children who will use the equipment. Local responses and feedback will guide final placements to maximize impact.
A model for civic action
City leaders in McKinney see this effort as part of a broader mission: to demonstrate how municipalities can leverage local resources to create global good. The collaboration with Project Playground serves as a blueprint for other communities seeking to extend their reach through responsible reuse, transparent operations, and community engagement that resonates with residents at home and abroad.
What’s next
Officials say planning is underway to select partner sites, coordinate permits and shipping, and begin the refurbishment timeline. Public outreach in McKinney will keep residents informed and invited to contribute ideas, volunteer time, and support fundraising efforts. As these play structures find new life overseas, they carry a story of local stewardship, international solidarity, and the universal joy of play.
