Joya Playground at Oran Good Park in Farmers Branch commenced its opening on Jan. 20 with a bang. Fireworks boomed and children yelled in excitement as the playground lit up and turned various shades of neon as they played.
The grand opening for the new glow-in-the-dark park featured stilt-walkers clad in neon gear, a live DJ, face painting, swag bags and food trucks.
The event hosted many Farmers Branch government officials, including Mayor Terry Lynne, and Richard Jackson, mayor pro tempore. Before the lighting of Joya Playground, Jackson spoke about the impact this addition to Oran Good Park will have. He said: “More than just a fun place to play, Joya Playground symbolizes our commitment to inclusivity and togetherness. That’s the essence of the Farmers Branch community.
It’s a space where children from all walks and all abilities can come together, make new friends, and create lasting memories.”
Lynne and Jackson answered some questions about Joya and its impact on the Farmers Branch community.
Will the glow-in-the-dark element of Joya Playground allow more people in the community to spend time outside, especially in the summer?
TL: Yes, well, this is a very unique park, and I think that it will bring people out year-round. This is a one-of-a-kind amenity, the only one of its kind in all of North America.
What was the inspiration behind Joya Playground?
TL: Well, you know it gets so hot in the summertime, and there’s not a lot to do outside. You can’t go play on a hot swing set, so now this is something kids can use in the evening time, and the materials used on the playground are made to reflect heat.
RJ: We also got input from kids about what they wanted to see at a park, so the kids in the community had a hand in how this turned out.
Is there an age limit for Joya Playground?
TL: Nope! 1-100, bring them all!
