A colorful new children’s park has opened at the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens thanks to a $250,000 donation to the Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association by attorney Neil Papiano.

The Neil Papiano Play Park, which incorporates animal-themed climbing sculptures, large play structures, a toddler area, water misters, grassy landscaping, and a large picnic area in 25,000-sq. ft., is accessible to all children visiting the zoo, including those with medical and physical challenges.

Prompted by childhood yearnings to play in parks when he lived in an urban neighborhood where none was available, Papiano has committed himself to providing safe, well-designed, top-quality play areas for city children.

"I am proud to establish this park in the wonderful Los Angeles Zoo for the children of the metropolis that has been my home for many years," said Papiano, a senior partner in the law firm of Iverson, Yoakum, Papiano & Hatch.

The zoo is in Griffith Park, Los Angeles. Admission ranges from $5 to $10.

For information, call (323) 644-4200 or visit www.lazoo.org.