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Proposal to install Ninja‑course at Discovery Park advances after fundraising boost
Summary
Parks staff presented a privately initiated plan to add a Ninja course at Discovery Park; the fundraising campaign has reached about $185,000 and staff described grant and in‑kind possibilities and site constraints.
Parks staff described a privately led effort to install a Ninja‑course obstacle course at Discovery Park and asked the commission for feedback on the proposed location and next steps.
Mike Barton presented the proposal on Jan. 8, saying the project arose after a local family—whose daughter inspired the effort—researched options and raised funds to build a course that will serve older children, teens and adults. Barton said the campaign had raised about $163,000 earlier in the fundraising materials and that, as of a check just before the meeting, the group had reached approximately $185,000.
Why it matters: the course would add an active‑use amenity targeted to tweens, teens and young adults—an age group Barton said is underserved by current park amenities—and would complement Discovery Park’s family‑oriented collection of playgrounds, courts and paths.
Barton showed site plans and noted a key constraint: a Williams pipeline easement runs diagonally through the park and limits where the course can be placed; staff therefore selected a location outside the easement and adjacent to courts and existing active areas. He described the proposed course elements (warp wall start, angled overhead ladders, ledge hanger, rope climber, accessible power lifter, sidewalk panels, bridge and wheel bridge) and said surfacing would be artificial turf. The recommended supplier is Sontag Recreation, which previously built the Discovery Park playground.
Barton described potential funding sources to close the remaining gap: a $20,000 Blue Cross grant under consideration and possible in‑kind donations (site excavation, gravel, ground work). He said staff will discuss next steps with city leadership and potentially the City Council if city funds are needed to make up any remaining shortfall.
Commissioners expressed support. Commissioner Alan Helms asked whether the course targeted teenagers; Barton replied that the design accommodates ages roughly 5–12 and 13 and older, including adults. Vice Chair Reese Sandow asked whether the family had been involved in planning; Barton said the family selected the model and participated in planning and that a formal dedication would be planned after installation. Commissioners praised the amenity and noted Discovery Park as an appropriate site.
No formal commission vote was recorded on Jan. 8; staff said they wanted the commission’s input before proceeding to further fundraising and coordination with city leadership. If approved by council or if city funds become involved, staff indicated they would return with additional details and scheduling. Barton said he would pursue grant opportunities, in‑kind donations and dialogues with city leadership toward closing the funding gap and a timely installation.
