City Park Playground Project
In 2006, a new Master Plan recommended by the Park and Recreation Advisory Board and adopted by the City Commission, called for creating a more pedestrian-friendly City Park. Many interior roads will disappear or end in parking areas to create open green space. Phase I calls for renovation of City Park Playground and will begin by April 1
PHASE 1
Playground renovation includes protecting the mature oak trees that provide shade and a scenic backdrop to the play area, 170 ft. of roadway will be removed to reduce car traffic, additional paved parking spaces will be added, and new accessible playground equipment will be installed.
The new playground area will feature approx. 9000 square feet of playground space and sidewalks connecting 11th Street to Johnny Kaw and the new playground, then beyond to a pedestrian bridge on the west side of the existing playground. Future plans include family restrooms and a picnic shelter in the playground area.
FAQ’S
What happens to the existing playground? The current playground will remain open while the new playground is under construction and will be removed after the new playground is finished. New equipment will be added to the current area next year.
Safety fencing will protect young citizens playing on the playground while allowing them to watch the excitement of a new playground taking shape.
Construction traffic will enter the park from Leavenworth while public access to the playground will continue from Poyntz Ave. Former sand play areas will be reclaimed to open space and rubber safety surface will protect children from falls and moms from frustration with sand-filled shoes.
What will the new playground look like? Preliminary designs are underway for bidding by playground suppliers with final design selection to include input from Manhattan grade school classes.
When will the restroom and shelter be built? Although spaces have been identified for these important features, funding for them has not yet been identified. City staff will work to identify sources and a timeframe to complete this part of the playground.