After the rec center staff examined the playground recently, which displayed rust, old brackets and natural wear and tear from the salty sea breeze, they decided it was time for a complete makeover. The renovation, which cost $488,092.46, covered the three main play structures and the updated surfacing. These three play structures included the toddler house, a spider web and a big toy.
Constructed in the late 1990s, the rec center playground was initially a sand playground surrounded by a chain-link fence, but it has evolved and expanded over the years. The toddler house, installed in 1998, was replaced with a new version featuring a butterfly climber with flower petals. Originally installed in 2003, the big toy was also replaced with a tall new structure. The spider web, installed in 2006, was subsequently replaced by a new rope climber and slide piece.
IOP city paid for the project with funds received through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), which covered the entire cost of the renovations. “The city had ARPA Funds that needed to be used, and the council voted to use those funds to cover the playground project,” explained IOP Recreation Director Karrie Ferrell.
The grand opening of the playground took place on Thursday, May 15, so it is ready just in time for the summer when school officially lets out.
By Maurice J. Frazier
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