The Good: If Washington Middle School Park had a righteous, punk rock uncle, Bianchetti would be that park. It's a split personality of old school climb 'n slide alongside a Dali dreamscape of ropes, rings and trippy things. Woodchips. Two big kid swings and one bucket (limited radius). The green is expansive, with plenty of room for soccer or flag football, trees line the perimeter. Basketball, half-court (high five!). Lots of trash cans, benches and areas to relax while the monkeys go ape... wild.
The Bad: Yet another ABQ park with no shade, making this place off-limits during the hot summer hours of the day, which is essentially three months of the year. Shade is such an important investment, people! Visit any shade-less city park that's 5+ years of age and you'll find that our brutal rays absolutely punish the equipment, melting and fading the plastic. Anybody understand the logic of metal materials on these grounds? Me either. The upfront cost of installing some shade sails atop these areas might initially hurt, but they've gotta pay off in the long run. They certainly ease my concerns about skin cancer.
The Verdict: I'll get off my soapbox, it's nearly impossible to find a shaded park in the 505. This park is gorgeous. It's definitely better for the elder set, toddlers won't find much to do here, but who cares. Brilliant execution. read more
