Council reviews alternatives to renovate Kids Kingdom play area; favors vendor option that preserves structure and upgrades surfacing

The Rowlett City Council reviewed two vendor approaches for renovating the Kids Kingdom play facility during its April 8 work session and signaled a preference for a renovation package that preserves existing structural foundations while replacing worn components and upgrading surfacing.

What was presented: Christophe Bauer, City staff, explained that the project was paused after council members and staff learned that an earlier presentation to council had omitted some information. The city reopened the procurement review and invited Play By Design — the original designer/supplier — to present an alternate approach. Play By Design proposed a plan that would retain the existing foundations and structural uprights, remove and replace worn climbing components, slides, swing seats and hardware, replace handrails and post caps, and add new play elements (a central “water‑tower” climbing feature, updated spinners and bridges). The plan also relocates a fence section to meet current safety clearances for the zip line.

Surface options and costs: The vendor proposed two surfacing strategies: poured‑in‑place rubber surfacing and synthetic turf. For durability and warranty reasons the vendor recommended a higher‑grade turf in high‑wear zones (swing landings, merry‑go‑round edges) and offered a $1.4–$1.466 million range depending on material choices and contingencies. The proposal also includes a soils/contingency allowance (the presentation listed $60,000 as a soil contingency pending subsurface inspection).

Accessibility and safety: Staff said the existing castle structure was designed for all‑abilities circulation and can remain in place; many replaced features will increase accessibility and safety, including accessible swings and tactile play panels. Staff also reported that no project work has yet been performed and no bid was executed while the scope was rechecked.

Council feedback and next steps Council members asked detailed questions about turf pile height, infill needs, seam treatments, heat concerns on synthetic turf, shade canopies for the tot area, seating, and exterior entrance grades (high‑use paths that currently turn to bare dirt). Several council members favored a combination approach: higher‑grade turf in high‑wear areas and turf or poured‑in‑place surfacing elsewhere, with natural or neutral accent colors so the colorful play elements remain visually prominent.

The council indicated support for the vendor’s “Option B” renovation approach (the Play By Design proposal that preserves foundations and replaces worn components) and asked staff to return quickly with design variations for color and surfacing — including green turf for the play field and contrasting, higher‑warranty surfacing in the high‑traffic zones — and to solicit Parks Advisory Board input. Staff said the earliest installation window for full replacement elements is July but the vendor recommended fall installation to avoid supply/timing risks; staff will bring refined surfacing samples and a revised schedule back to council for final selection and to allow public‑works coordination for the entry path and seating.