Noblesville Parks & Recreation receives generous accessible playground donation

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The Noblesville Parks and Recreation Department, in partnership with the Noblesville Parks Foundation, has announced the development of a new accessible playground at Seminary Park, home to the Indiana Peony Festival, made possible through a generous gift from Tom and Soni Sheehan through the Timothy J. Sheehan Memorial Endowment Fund.

Designed to create play experiences for all abilities, the vision for this playground was thoughtfully crafted through a collaboration with the Noblesville Parks Department, Tracey Sheehan and family members, the Noblesville Parks Foundation, Noblesville Parks Board, and Commercial Recreation Group.

“Thank you to the Sheehan Family for this generous donation and investment to enhance Seminary Park,” Mayor Chris Jensen said. “Making our parks accessible for all and having a playground where people of all abilities can interact, participate alongside their peers, and fully engage in the playground experience furthers our commitment to inclusivity in Noblesville. This playground also enhances and elevates Seminary Park, which is located in the heart of downtown Noblesville, and the home of the Indiana Peony Festival that attracts over 40,000 attendees annually.”

Tom and Soni Sheehan were dedicated philanthropists whose impact was felt throughout Noblesville and Hamilton County. Their legacy lives on through the Thomas P. and Sondra D. Sheehan Charitable Foundation, which is committed to improving the lives of children. The playground will feature inclusive play equipment designed to create a welcoming and accessible environment for children of all abilities, bringing families together to enjoy and celebrate the Sheehan’s dedication and commitment to serving the residents of Hamilton County.

“Seeing this project to fruition has been wonderful,” Tracey Sheehan said. “My parents led by example, teaching us the importance of helping others and giving back to the community. Carrying forward their charitable work isn’t an obligation, it’s an honor and through every act of kindness I feel their presence and guidance as I continue the legacy they so selflessly began. How lucky am I!”

The ribbon cutting ceremony for the playground will take place at 9 a.m. Thursday, May 14 at Seminary Park, 350 S. 10th St. The event is open to the public.

“This project is a meaningful reflection of what community partnership can accomplish,” Noblesville Parks & Recreation Director Savannah Wines said. “It is exciting that we are able to bring this project to life thanks to the Sheehan Family’s generosity. Noblesville Parks continues to make investments in creating inclusive spaces for all abilities, and this new park improvement is a major milestone and sets the tone for future playground upgrades across the community.”