All-Inclusive Playground Set to Open in Monticello

An amazing new playground for kids of all ages and abilities is about to open in Monticello and is named after a young boy who would have loved to run and play on it himself.

Ribbon cutting for the Austin Smith All-Inclusive Playground is tonight in Monticello according to KCRG. Dinner will be served at 5 p.m. with the ribbon cutting at 6 p.m. On Thursday, the playground will then be open for kids to use and enjoy. The playground features equipment and toys for kids of all ages and abilities. The new facility is named after a boy who can only be described as a superhero.

Austin Smith was diagnosed with a rare form of brain cancer when he was just five years old. He battled through numerous procedures and treatments and showed true courage the entire time. Austin passed away in 2016. But in his memory, Austin's parents started the Austin Strong Foundation. The foundation raises money for pediatric cancer research, but they also wanted to do something for the community that helped support them in difficult times.

Plans for the new playground have been ongoing for several years, with donors and sponsors contributing some $450,000 for the project. Now that the Monticello project is complete, KCRG reports that the foundation would also like to build one in the Springville area.

Austin's mom, Mikinzie Smith told KCRG, "I know Austin would be proud of it." He certainly is. It is yet another example of how we can all be 'Austin Strong.'

Get our free mobile app