New Feather In Patch Reef's CAP

Patch Reef Park continues to grow more inclusive for people of all abilities.

On Oct. 23, District Commissioners, joined by other local leaders and nearly 100 members of the community cut the ribbon to ceremoniously open the new Community Accessibility Program Center at Patch Reef.

“Our goal is to have everyone in the Boca Raton community use and enjoy our parks,” Commissioner Suzi Vogelgesang said. “The CAP program is unique in our area and will help bring families together while making new friends.”

Located within the former community center, CAP offers inclusive, adaptive recreational opportunities for children and families of all abilities. The center features a giant Lite-Brite wall, a Rigamajig building center, magnet walls, a pneumatic air wall, a multiball interactive wall, a sensory pit and more interactive features.

The clubhouse room offers free play, with different times of the day designated for different age groups ranging from toddlers to senior citizens. The room's amenities will be reset throughout the day to suit the age of the group.

Following the ribbon-cutting, Commissioners and attendees toured the renovated building, liking what they saw.

“There are some fantastic features in here,” Commissioner Steve Engel said. “People are going to enjoy the facility and find something they like regardless of their abilities. It's a true achievement to be able to offer this to our community.”

Boca Raton Deputy Mayor Michelle Grau and Palm Beach County School Board Representative Gloria Branch joined the Commissioners for the ribbon cutting.

The ceremony represented CAP's soft opening. It is open to the public, with an increase in programming expected in January.

CAP families can participate in programs including Open Play, sensory-friendly activities, caregiver support groups, sibling socials, and family nights. Additional resources, such as sensory maps and social scripts, will help individuals and families navigate community spaces and experiences.

In preparation for the CAP program, crews recently installed a hearing loop under building floors, allowing for amplified sound while diminishing background noise for those with hearing aids.

District-owned Patch Reef Park opened in 1983, adding the community center in 1987. The renovations continue a theme of inclusivity being pursued by the District. 

In May of 2025 the District opened its all-inclusive playground at Patch Reef.