Barrett Boesen Park and Natural Playscape - Urbandale, Iowa
After conducting an online survey with over 1,300 Urbandale resident participants, JBC incorporated community feedback into a comprehensive phased master plan for this 3-acre park, bringing innovative natural play to Urbandale's families.
Completion of Phase 1 brought site circulation, creek access, loose parts play, and a large main nature play area to life along with a parking lot, shelter and restroom building.
Natural play elements include:
Loose parts unstructured play area
Willow arches
Mud kitchens
Water pump and creek bed
Sand play area with water bubbler
Log climbing structures
Limestone boulder climbing cave
Designed to use the site's existing natural features and be inclusive of children and families of all abilities, Barrett Park will serve as a regional amenity for nature play in the Des Moines metro area. Future phases include an outdoor classroom, natural splash ground, bird's nest play areas, and additional play structures.
Gallery
Awards
2023 AWARD OF MERIT - American Society of Landscape Architects Central States | Design Built
2025 AWARD OF MERIT - American Society of Landscape Architects Prairie Gateway Chapter | Design Built