
In Columbia, S.C., community members can be excited about the ice cream truck, the Amazon truck, and now, the Park and Play Truck. Columbia Parks and Recreation will unveil the Park and Play mobile recreation van tomorrow, Jan. 30 at St. Anna’s Park.
The vehicle, painted with a mural of children and the words ‘Park and Play,’ aims to make outdoor recreation accessible for residents and encourage everyone to get outside and enjoy Parks and Recreation Department amenities. For the initial launch of the Park and Play vehicle, food and drinks will be provided by Humana.
According to ABC Columbia, “The outreach goal of the Park and Play mobile recreation van is to create safe and inclusive spaces where neighbors can come together, build relationships, and enjoy the benefits of physical activity, creative expression, and social interaction, according to a press release.”
The Park and Play will be stocked with sports gear including basketballs, soccer balls and jump ropes. It will also include yard games like corn hole and Jenga. For those who enjoy more sedentary outdoor activities, the truck will come equipped with arts and crafts supplies and other interactive activities.
The Parks and Recreation Department told Cola Daily News, “the van will be a vital resource for connecting with neighborhoods that need it most, and break down barriers to recreation by reaching underserved communities and providing accessible, free, and engaging activities for families and children.”
Related: Suburban Philadelphia YMCA Launches 'Fit Truk' for Mobile Workouts
The Park and Play is the latest in a series of similar innovations from cities across the country. Just weeks ago, a YMCA in a Philadelphia suburb launched the ‘Fit Truk’ allowing would-be gymgoers to access workout equipment in the city’s parks. And, last year a South Carolina fitness enthusiast launched a mobile gym when brick and mortar locations weren’t fitting his needs.