Nestled in the heart of Sherman, TX, Fairview Park has long been a cherished community hub. Now, its revitalized playground is setting a new standard in innovative, inclusive design—one that ignites the imagination while embracing the values of equity and collaboration. As the community recently celebrated the park’s transformation, residents and city officials alike are thrilled to see how the new playground is redefining public play spaces in the area.
"There's nothing compared to this design, probably in the entire state of Texas. We're setting the standard, as far as mixed-use," said Justin Eastwood, Sherman's Parks and Recreation Director.
The journey from concept to completion was a carefully orchestrated process that began in July 2023 when Sherman's Parks and Recreation team visited Shoreview Commons Playground in Minnesota on a PLAY Tour. Inspired by their visit, the team moved quickly from vision to action. By February 2024, the design was finalized, and construction commenced in October of the same year.
On March 7, 2025, the revitalization of the over 100-year-old Fairview Park playground was marked by a festive ribbon-cutting ceremony, where local officials and community members gathered to honor this exciting new chapter. “This park truly embodies what Sherman is all about, it has changed over the years, and as Sherman has grown, this park has grown, and as Sherman has changed, this park has changed,” Sherman Mayor Shawn Teamann said. “I like to say this park, Fairview Park is a classic park with broad horizons.”, as reported by KXll.
The inspiration behind the playground began with a bold vision: to create a space that transcends traditional play areas and ignites the imagination. Local designers and community members collaborated closely, blending artistic expression with innovative design elements. The result is a playground that feels like a miniature wonderland, inviting children to step into a world of adventure where every corner holds a new surprise.
“One of our key goals was to build a space where creativity and play merge seamlessly,” says one of the project’s lead designers, Preston Rubsamen. “We wanted the playground to be a canvas for the imagination—a place where children of all abilities could create their own stories while engaging with thoughtfully designed inclusive features.”
The new playground was conceived with an ambitious vision: to create a space that ignites the imagination and offers a safe, inclusive environment for children of all abilities. Every structure was designed to be more than just a play object – each is a gateway to countless imaginative adventures. The aim was to build a playground that lets children of all abilities create their own stories.
The park’s design focuses on inclusivity, ensuring that every child and adult can find joy and connection through play. By incorporating ground-level play elements and accessible structures, Fairview Park has set a new standard in playground design, making inclusivity a core value rather than an afterthought.
While the playground is a haven for children, its imaginative design also offers a space for community engagement and relaxation. Parents can enjoy serene seating areas amidst the surrounding green spaces, making it a perfect spot for social gatherings.
The revitalization of Fairview Park was truly a community effort. The final design reflected the collective dreams and needs of the community. “This playground is a reflection of our community’s spirit,” noted one local parent during the celebration. As highlighted by KTEN, the park’s transformation not only enhances the physical landscape but also strengthens social bonds, making it a cherished asset for Sherman.
The transformation of Fairview Park was made possible through dynamic partnerships and strategic collaborations. The city of Sherman worked closely with Whirlix Design, Landscape Structures, and Valley Quest Design to create a playscape that reflects the community's values and long-term goals. Brady Dillow, Business Development Manager at Whirlix Design, noted, “Our collaboration ensured that every design element—from berms to the custom tower—meets the highest standards of safety, innovation, and inclusivity.” These strategic partnerships were crucial in developing a playground that not only meets but also exceeds expectations, offering innovative play options that inspire creativity and exploration.
More than just a play area, the new playground at Fairview Park is a forward-thinking investment in the community’s future. By fostering a creative environment where children can explore, learn, and interact, the park sets a new standard for inclusive design and public spaces.
In an era where digital screens often dominate leisure time, Fairview Park’s revitalized playground offers a refreshing, tangible celebration of creativity and community spirit. It stands as a beacon of inclusivity, ensuring that play is accessible to all, and reminding us that when creativity and collaboration unite, the possibilities are limitless.
Come experience the magic of Fairview Park’s new playground in Sherman, TX, and discover how creativity, community, and innovation can transform public spaces.