Playground Review: Method Community Park

Today, the area sits not far from N.C. State University and the N.C. State Fairgrounds. Within the neighborhood is Method Community Park, which includes the Pioneers Building, the agricultural building of the former Berry O'Kelly High School, the first fully accredited and largest rural high school for African Americans in the state, according to the City of Raleigh. The building has an exhibit room with history about the school.

The current playground opened in 2012 thanks to a $50,000 grant from CVS Caremark All Kids Can Program. The grant paid for a playground that offered opportunities for kids of all abilities, including those in wheelchairs.

For instance, you'll find the usual belt and bucket swings, along with swings with high backs and harnesses for kids with physical limitations. The playground designed for older kids is low to the ground with a ramp that allows a child in a wheelchair to access it. The decking is wide so they can wheel to various points along the play set. There are rings for kids to pull themselves up from a sitting positions and a variety of plastic percussion instruments for all kids to play.

The community center has bathrooms. A parking lot is right next to the playground, which is bounded by a chain link fence. There is a picnic table and some benches inside the playground.

Method Community Park is at 514 Method Rd., Raleigh. Watch the video for a closer look.