Discussed are what constitutes good lighting for a sports field, what are the best lamp and floodlight types, what is involved in maintenance, and how various systems compare. Lighting for fields of various shapes and tennis courts is examined in detail. (MT)

The concepts upon which current playgrounds are designed are examined. Recommendations made for playground designers involve: (1) realizing all play is "normal"; (2) redirecting thinking on safety factors in planning; (3) designing equipment for the environment it will be used in; (4) broadening guidelines for equipment design; and (5)…

The design, layout, and orientation of sports facilities should be planned, and sites selected, so that the majority of the players will not be affected by the direct rays of the sun. (JD)

Though efforts to improve playground safety are consistent and ongoing, there has been no significant reduction in the rate of serious injuries. The article lists factors to consider when designing a safe playground, emphasizing the risk-taking inherent in children's play. (SM)

Playground safety is a critical issue in the United States. About 60-70% of all playground injury lawsuits carry a claim relating to inadequate maintenance. The article discusses U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission guidelines and American Society for Testing and Materials safety standards for playgrounds. (SM)

Conventional swimming pools have been built with the needs of competitive swimmers in mind. Planners in several European countries have greatly increased swimming pool attendance by designing "leisure pools," based primarily on the needs and behavior of recreationists. Design of these pools and their equipment requirements are discussed.…

Major challenges for recreation facility planning in an age of increasing costs are reviewed with emphasis on the need to combine imagination and technology to produce environmentally-sensitive, energy-efficient, aesthetically pleasing recreation designs. Major planning considerations are: operational efficiency, greater facility use,…

Covers the indoor-outdoor pool, the fenceless pool, a 3-pool city, and a master-planned community emphasizing community recreation in the field of aquatics. (AN)

Parking, room temperature controls, wear-and-tear on furnishings, security, and other factors that should be considered in designing a community center are discussed. The importance of good planning based on community needs is emphasized. (PP)

This article describes the playground of the future. Its design would promote both defined and creative play opportunities for all children including the handicapped. Also discussed is the equipment that would be useful in developing all children's perceptual motor abilities in 11 different areas. (JM)

Students in two college departments--child and family development and horticulture--worked together to develop an outdoor play environment for children. The processes used to gain insight into the nature and needs of children at play are discussed. (DF)

Discusses the American with Disabilities Act, a civil rights act requiring that all businesses, including parks and recreation facilities, be accessible to people with disabilities. The article discusses discrimination, integration, funding concerns, attitudes, and staffing issues. Information sources are listed. (SM)