Commission approves $707,991.84 for Parker Bennett and Reservoir Hill playground replacements, emphasizes inclusive design and historic context

The Bowling Green Board of Commissioners voted Jan. 7, 2025, to purchase replacements for the Parker Bennett Park playground and the Reservoir Hill playground (also known on the record as C. F. Smith Park) from GameTime through the Omnia Partners cooperative purchasing contract for $707,991.84.

The city and parks staff said the work is part of the FY2025 capital program and emphasized accessible, inclusive design at Parker Bennett and a naturalistic, historically themed playground at Reservoir Hill. Parks staff estimated delivery of playground equipment in about nine to 12 weeks and said the Parker Bennett installation will be scheduled so the summer camp season can use the new equipment.

Why it matters: The project replaces aging equipment and advances the commission’s stated goal of making renovated playgrounds accessible to children with disabilities. Staff also said the Reservoir Hill design will acknowledge the site’s historical significance and incorporate landscape elements and fencing to mark the historic area.

What the commission approved

The municipal order (approved on the record as part of the Jan. 7 meeting) authorizes the purchase from GameTime for…