Council approves $328,000 playground equipment purchase for Twiggs Park improvement

Evanston's City Council has taken a significant step towards enhancing community recreational facilities by approving a $328,000 contract for new play equipment at Twiggs Park Playground. The decision, made during the Administration and Public Works Committee Meeting on July 14, 2025, passed unanimously with a 5-0 vote.

The approved contract is a lump sum agreement specifically for the purchase of playground equipment, separate from installation and construction services. This strategic approach was adopted due to concerns about the lengthy lead times associated with playground equipment procurement. By isolating the equipment purchase, the city aims to expedite the process and ensure timely improvements to the park.

Council member Kelly raised questions during the meeting regarding the contract's details, emphasizing the importance of transparency and understanding the financial implications. The council clarified that the Parks and Recreation Board does not review bids for such equipment, which is standard practice for these types of contracts.

In addition to the playground equipment approval, the council also discussed a one-year renewal of software services, although details on this matter were not elaborated in the transcript.

The decision to enhance Twiggs Park Playground is expected to provide a more engaging and safe environment for children and families in the community. As the city moves forward with the next steps, including evaluating bids for installation, residents can look forward to improved recreational facilities in the near future.