(Lawrenceville, Ga., March 22, 2024) – Gwinnett officials on Thursday unveiled the new Sensory Treehouse, designed to enhance access to enrichment opportunities for residents and visitors with disabilities. The treehouse is located on the grounds of the Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center in unincorporated Buford.

The 20-foot-tall treehouse sits central to the 340-foot-long accessible steel walkway with three nodes, surrounded by a viewing and activity platform and a high-hanging hammock. Inside the treehouse, visitors can enjoy a circular audio-visual experience with a domed ceiling, used for various teaching and entertainment experiences.

Gwinnett County Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson emphasized the positive impact the development will have on individuals with disabilities.

“With inclusivity at the forefront of our initiatives, the treehouse enables our residents to connect with peers and develop lifelong skills related to science and nature,” said Hendrickson. “We strive to ensure that every member of our community can access resources without unnecessary barriers.”

The entire structure is ADA-accessible, allowing for those in a wheelchair to reach an area in the forest that wouldn’t be possible with conventional footpaths. In addition to its existing activities, collaborations with the Gwinnett County Public School System will offer exhibits displayed along the forest trail, providing multisensory environmental experiences for all ages with a focus on habitat, pollinators, animal adaptations, and more.

“Gwinnett County is committed to the ongoing development of quality resources and programming that support our community,” said District 4 Commissioner Matthew Holtkamp. “These valued partnerships are essential to cultivating the well-being of our residents.”

Gwinnett County used $4.5 million in SPLOST funds for the project.