Committee approves playground equipment and accessible surfacing for Salter Road Pocket Park

The Finance Committee on Jan. 27 approved a contract with Great Southern Recreation to outfit the Salter Road Pocket Park playground, choosing a package that includes an accessible surfacing and a multi-seat swing option. The vote was unanimous, 4-0.

Why it matters: The Salter Road playground has been in the capital program but remained unfinished pending surfacing and equipment. Committee members said neighbors have requested the amenity for years and highlighted the value of including at least one swing configured for small children or a parent-child seat even if the site is too small for a full-size adaptive swing.

Details: Great Southern Rec provided two equipment options. Option 2 — the committee’s choice — pairs a circular spinner/interactive component with a multi-seat swing arrangement; staff said one swing seat can be changed out to a baby/strap seat to support small children. Surfacing will be an EPA-style recycled-tire material funded by a grant; surfacing costs are covered by grant funding and the equipment prices quoted exclude the surfacing cost. The selected package price (equipment only) was presented in packet materials; surfacing funding was previously approved.

Accessibility: Staff said the surfacing is zero-entry and improves access for people who use wheelchairs. The committee discussed limitations of the smaller site and confirmed the city could not fit a full-size adaptive swing like those at larger parks; staff committed to providing a baby-seat swap option on one swing.

Outcome: Motion to approve option 2 carried 4-0; staff will schedule installation and provide a timeline to the committee.