The Yukon City Council on July 15 approved proposal specifications and authorized staff to solicit bids for Phase 1 of a citywide playground replacement program, with up to four parks targeted and a cost cap not to exceed $449,999.99 per playground.

Parks and Recreation staff recommended installing playground equipment at Dickinson Park, Welch Park, Taylor Park and a Greenbelt location near East Vanderment and Redbud Street. Parks Director Ryan explained the sites were chosen because they currently lack playground equipment and because planners considered accessibility, drainage and proximity to neighborhood populations.

Staff presented multiple location options within each park and said installations will be coordinated with public works to address utilities, floodplain and other site constraints. Ryan said if the specifications are approved, staff will distribute the bid packet to multiple playground vendors and set a proposal due date of Aug. 8 to allow companies time for site visits and design proposals.

Council members voiced support for placing playgrounds in neighborhoods that currently lack equipment and praised the department’s open specifications that allow vendors flexibility. The council voted unanimously to approve the specifications and proceed with procurement; the parks director said vendors may bid on one or multiple playgrounds and the city may select multiple vendors if that yields the best value.