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New Playground At BWI Has Unique Backdrop

LANSDOWNE, Md. (WJZ) -- BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport has opened a new attraction for families -- and it doesn't involve a boarding pass. A playground is now open near its public trail, WJZ's Tracey Leong reports.

Airplanes soar high above a new playground built inside the Thomas A. Dixon Junior Aircraft Observation Park.

"The kids love coming to play and watching the airplanes," said Kristen Lukefahr, lives near playground.

The amazing views of planes heading in and out of BWI provide a unique backdrop for the jungle gym.

"Parents can sit and interact with other parents, and it's just good for kids and parents to have somewhere they can go and meet new people," said Bianca Evans, lives near playground.

The playground is also surrounded by BWI's 12-mile scenic trail, which loops around the airport. It's used by joggers, bikers and walkers.

"Every time my family has to fly, we always look for kid-friendly atmosphere and a kid-friendly area, and BWI is really great for that," said Kristen Lukefahr, lives near playground.

BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport has invested in the new playground to show its commitment to the community.

"We try to make the experience as positive as possible, and we try to improve those processes," said Ricky Smith, CEO, BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport.

Families say they appreciate the airport's dedication.

"Awesome. The airport feels a need to have something like this, and they are able to put something like this for the community," said Evans.

BWI is the first airport in the United States to create a public trail.

The new playground replaced the old structure that was taken down last December.

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