Dorothy Curran Playground’s nautical theme takes inspiration from its close proximity to the Boston Harbor. The custom play equipment embodies the form of an old sailing ship and lighthouse. The edge of the blue color-coated pavement defines the play areas and reflects the curvature of the shoreline. The surface is painted with graphics that depict the currents of the nearby harbor water. The tall, wavy spray features have been modified to resemble giant seaweed that sprays water when activated by the children. Other features, such as the teeter boat and a musical sea turtle, further reinforce the theme and add play value. Decommissioned buoys, acquired from the US Coast Guard, have been refurbished and embedded in the paving surface.

These aids-to-navigation are painted (red and green) to conform with the “Red-Right-Returning” rule of thumb used in the harbor. Wooden docks and piers mark the walkways’ entry/exit points. Recycled concrete curbs are set on end to form a retaining wall that resembles a wharf.

Dorothy Curran Playground caters to the needs of children with disabilities. Accessible ramps and walkways enable those with disabilities to participate in the core play areas. Tactile panels on the play structures depict braille and sign language diagrams to encourage children to learn and communicate better with those who have special needs. Fragrant plants in the rain garden enhance the sensory experience for people with vision impairment.

The rain garden filters and absorbs storm water and spray pool runoff, reducing the impact of the project on the City’s storm drain system. Another sustainable feature is the use of recycled materials, such as wood/polymer lumber for the docks, piers and musical sea turtle, recycled plastic benches and picnic tables, reused concrete curbs for the retaining wall, recycled rubber play surfacing, and refurbished buoys.