LEAP Site Plan Revealed
Work continues on Phase III improvements to Cullinan Park, with Kimley-Horn and GreenWorks recently completing a site plan for the LEAP: Learn, Explore & Play zones designed to engage young minds and cultivate a respect for nature.
The LEAP project encompasses 2 to 3 acres on the banks of Oyster Creek within walking distance from White Lake and adjacent to the recently completed parking area at the end of the park entry road. This sustainable, nature play area will be open to all age groups and abilities, promoting healthy physical and mental well-being. It will also serve as an outdoor classroom, inspiring children to learn about the park’s ecosystem. The site plan shows paved pathways leading to the various zones, including:
- A Community Hub/Shelter that provides covered event space for nature classes, picnics, and other gatherings.
- Nearby is The Lawn, a central gathering space associated with the Shelter serving as the central Hub for the LEAP area during structured events, field trips and learning adventures, while alsooffering space for unstructured play, events, and parties. It is an area for running, wandering, relaxing, and connecting with others in an outdoor environment.
- Water Discovery is a meandering creek/wetland offering a natural element that invites play through a dry or wet creek bed.
- Log Play is a nature-themed play areaconstructed with logs to provide a place where children can utilize their imaginations to create their own vision of play. A Log Jam structure encourages physical activity by simulating nature's challenges requiring them to climb, balance, and problem-solve how to get to the next area of the structure in a safe, fun environment.
- The Bird’s Nest is all about exploring the world through the eyes of birds. At some point, every child thinks of perching high in a tree, observing the surroundings from above and gathering materials to build a cozy nest.
- The Boardwalk spans the creek to connect play spaces and give children a vantage point to observe aquatic life.
- The Tree Fort consists of a multi-level treehouse and an exploration bridge. It is all about imagination, climbing, and movement. Here a child can climb to the top to experience nature at different levels, giving them a new perspective through elevation.
- Two Gateways are planned to serve as trailheads for current and future connections to the trails system that meanders throughout the remainder of Cullinan Park.
With the site plan in place, Cullinan Park is actively fundraising to begin construction of the LEAP zones. The more than $100,000 raised at the 2025 Picnic for the Park will go toward this goal, as will other donations. Supporters can make one-time cash donations or choose to become a Friend of the Park by committing to recurring donations. Brick pavers and memorial benches both honor loved ones and raise money for park improvements. Corporate partnerships and sponsorships are also welcome and appreciated.
The LEAP project is estimated to cost $2.4 million. If fully funded, construction is estimated to take six to 12 months. The project could also be built in phases.
Want to help bring this exciting project to life? Become a Friend of Cullinan Park, make a cash donation, or purchase a memorial bench or brick paver — any support is greatly appreciated!