Kids Have a Say: New Playground Opens in Gonsenheim
A zip line, climbing structure, sandbox, and inclusive play features: The renovated playground on Hugo-Eckener-Straße in the Gleisberganlage is complete and was opened today, September 1, 2026. Approximately 140,000 euros were invested in the renovation.
“What the children wanted can now be seen on the playground: The 20-meter-long zip line is the centerpiece of the new facility, along with climbing, hanging, and balancing structures, a sandbox, and new gathering areas,” says Janina Steinkrüger, head of the Department of the Environment. “We implemented the plan step by step, preserving and refurbishing the existing horizontal bars in the process.”
The redesign had been delayed. Although the public participation process and planning were already completed in 2025 and the playground equipment had been ordered, work could not begin until early April 2026 due to the late approval of the budget. Long delivery times, delays with the EPDM surfacing (synthetic rubber flooring), and adjustments to the cable car also extended the construction period. The playground was completed on August 18.
In March 2025, about 50 children participated in a vote on three design proposals. The option featuring the cable car received the most votes. Many other ideas from the children were also incorporated.
“The children didn’t just express their wishes here—they helped design their playground themselves and had a say in the decisions. That’s what makes this place so special,” says Jana Schmöller, Commissioner for Children and Youth. “It’s wonderful to see how the children’s ideas and visions have gradually turned into a real playground. The cable car, which they chose by a large majority, symbolizes genuine participation: The children made the decision, and we listened and brought their ideas to life.”
Inclusion was also considered from the very beginning: a swing with a support seat and an accessible EPDM surface, a wheelchair-accessible sand play table, a communication board, and accessible paths make the playground usable for as many children as possible.
Two new benches—natural stone blocks with wooden seats—as well as new trees and about 60 shrubs enhance the overall experience. The lawn has not yet been planted due to the extreme drought. This will be done as soon as the weather permits.
The redesign was funded by the “Child-Friendly Mainz” budget (125,000 euros) and 15,000 euros in playground compensation funds.