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Suwannee Park playground demolition 90% complete; rubberized surface, ADA access expected in March
Summary
City staff reported demolition of Suwannee Park’s old playground is about 90% complete, a new all-abilities play structure will be installed in a roughly three-week build beginning March 4, and a rubberized pour requires night temperatures above 45°F. The project is funded in part by CDBG.
City staff reported Feb. 25 that demolition of the old equipment at Suwannee Park occurred Feb. 14 and is about 90% complete, with the contractor scheduled to return March 4 to begin installing a new, all-abilities playground.
“It's about a two-week process for the build of the new playground and then roughly a week for the pouring of the rubberized surface,” Parks staff member Patrick said. He added that the rubberized surface cannot be poured if nighttime temperatures drop below 45 degrees.
The new playground footprint will largely match the existing layout and adds shade structures, seating, wider ramps for wheelchair access and an added zip line. Staff said the project includes an ADA-accessible walkway from the parking lot and handicap parking areas; the walkway will be constructed by a separate contractor.
Funding and procurement: Patrick said the project qualifies for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding because it is an all-abilities playground and that the city is finalizing some contract details with the regional CDBG administrators. City staff expressed confidence the CDBG funds for this playground will come through, though they said earlier-stage CDBG projects without contracts may be less secure.
Equipment reuse: Staff told the council the city spoke with Castle Valley and fielded community interest in salvaging smaller pieces of equipment, but contractor scheduling and demolition methods damaged much of the old equipment, leaving it unsalvageable.
Skatepark tie-in: During questions, councilors asked about the city’s progress on a new skatepark. Patrick and other staff said the skatepark is identified as a priority in the parks master plan and that staff plan to add it to the CIP list for future funding cycles, but the skatepark is not funded in this grant cycle.
Questions remaining: Council members asked whether the rubberized surface carries a warranty; Patrick said he would check the contract and report back. Staff also noted some sidewalk and other CDBG-funded projects have less certain funding status and that council budget discussions will address options.
Timeline summary: Demolition largely complete; contractor scheduled back March 4; estimated on-site build roughly two weeks with an additional week for the rubberized surface pending temperature conditions.
