Ribbon Cutting set for November 1, 2015
Wednesday, Myrtle Beach started construction on a $3 million playground for children with mental and physical disabilities. The park will be called Savannah’s Playground. It is named after a local girl who has not let her disabilities stop her from having a full life. “It’s a huge, a huge honor,” said Savannah Thompson. Thompson is a 19-year-old Socastee High School Student with Williams Syndrome. When she was 4-years-old, complications from a surgery gave her brain damage and forced her into a coma. Since then, she has fought against the odds and made a name for herself in the community; especially in the sports world. Thompson has sung the National Anthem for several local teams.
Myrtle Beach Mayor John Rhodes says that is why the park is named after her. “It’s going to be absolutely beautiful and it’s going to be a great asset to this community and it’s going to be a great asset to families that have children with special needs,” said Rhodes. Rhodes says the playground will have several features, including a water area, a traditional playground, and a music playground. He says the new playground will be valuable not only to the people who live in Myrtle Beach, but the millions who visit every year. “Everything is designed to make sure that we are able to provide a great environment and also a great experience for our children,” said Rhodes. Thompson is responsible for more than just the name of the playground She also helped choose the colors teal and orange for the design. She says she cannot wait for the chance to enjoy what she helped create. The first phase of construction will cost $1.4 million dollars. A cost Rhodes says is well worth it, however he has only been able to raise half of the money right now.
For more information on the playground or if you would like to donate click here or send contributions and questions here:
Savannah’s Playground, Inc.
P. O. Box 3971
Myrtle Beach, SC 29578
843-231-7914 office
843-916-0012 fax
JohnRhodes@SavannahsPlayground.org
