Quakertown, PA
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History of Panther Playground
Panther Playground was built in the summer of 1993 by a dedicated volunteer group called Friends of Panther Playground. Their goal was to create a unique wooden playground that would serve as both a community space and a regional destination for families across Upper Bucks County. Set within Quakertown Memorial Park, it quickly became a beloved part of the Borough, offering families a place to play and make lasting memories.
Before the playground was built, the area was simply open space used for informal recreation. Memorial Park already featured softball diamonds, tennis courts, pavilions, a skating pond, and various other recreational amenities. Over time, Panther Playground became the heart of the park, central to the Borough's summer programming.
As the years went by, the original wooden structure began to age and outlast its expected lifespan. Though the Public Works Department carefully maintained the playground to ensure safety, it became clear that a new, more modern, and accessible playground was needed. The decision to replace the structure was made with respect for the playground’s deep sentimental value, honoring the memories created by generations of families.
The Transformation to QuiNBy's Playground
With community feedback in mind, the new playground was designed to be inclusive for all. The Borough of Quakertown chose to rename the playground to QuiNBy’s Playground, a nod to QNB Bank, the project’s top sponsor. The name “QuiNBy” comes from QNB’s children’s savings squirrel mascot, symbolizing the importance of community, growth, and play. This new name represents a modern, inclusive space that welcomes everyone.
The new QuiNBy’s Playground features:
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All-inclusive play structures, including a giant ramped play structure, wheelchair-accessible carousel, and ground-level play options
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Two designated play areas: one for preschool children (ages 2–5) and one for school-age children (ages 5–12)
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Poured-in-place rubber surfacing, which is accessible, durable, and safe
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ADA-compliant pathways and parking to ensure the playground is fully accessible to all families
The design also ensures clear sightlines for parents to supervise children in both play areas, making it easier for families to enjoy the space together.
A Playground Build with Community in Mind
The redesign of QuiNBy’s Playground was deeply shaped by community input, including a "Design Your Dream Playground" contest for students from the Quakertown Community School District. The winning designs were incorporated into the final concept, ensuring that the next generation of Quakertown had a hand in shaping the playground they would enjoy for years to come.
Today, QuiNBy’s Playground stands as a testament to the community’s ongoing commitment to inclusivity, play, and fun. It honors the legacy of Panther Playground while embracing the future, ensuring that families of all backgrounds can come together to make new memories.
The Borough had students from the Quakertown Community School help with the design phase of Panther Playground as well. The Parks and Recreation Department created a contest for students to design their dream playground, encouraging them to use their imagination. The winner of the contest would see aspects of their dream playground come to life.
