Council approves Phase 3 reconfiguration for Romer Park playground; tree climber to replace north parkour course

Washington Terrace councilors voted to reconfigure Phase 3 of the Romer Park Pickleball Plaza playground, removing a planned north parkour course and replacing it with a tree‑climber play structure recommended by staff and engineers.

Council member Jill Koford moved the measure and a colleague seconded; the motion passed by voice vote with the council answering ‘‘aye’’ and no recorded opposition. Carlos (city staff) presented engineering estimates and said the change aims to better meet the needs of older children and tweens, citing council feedback that the originally planned equipment would primarily serve younger children. Staff presented two previously budgeted playground elements (one listed in the project packet at about $23,000 and another at about $42,000) and said the tree‑climber option is a recommended fit for the available space and safety clearances. Engineers and staff said final cost and configuration will depend on bids and final engineering and that the city will attempt to retain existing boulders and other rustic features where feasible.

The council’s motion reads, in substance, to remove the north parkour course, replace it with a tree‑climber structure and implement the changes discussed by staff during the meeting. Councilors instructed staff to proceed with design revisions and return with final procurement details.