Committee approves redesigned Hardy Park playground, staff says project is under budget

The City Parks Committee voted to approve a redesigned playground for Hardy Park that will be relocated under existing trees, increase the play area, use engineered mulch for accessibility and include additional swings and play features.

Committee members heard from parks staff that the design will move the playground into a shaded area, expand the play surface to serve ages 2–12, and use engineered mulch that permits wheelchair access. Staff said one swing will be ADA accessible and that a ramp serves the larger play structure so children using wheelchairs could be assisted into the structure.

A parks presenter told the committee the project was designed, permitted and is currently under budget; if the committee’s approval is sent to council at the November meeting, staff said installation could begin in January with a 10–12 week delivery period. The presenter described the project as replacing a worn playground and adding features the committee requested while remaining within the current budget.

The committee recorded a motion to approve the Hardy Park playground design, a second was recorded, and the motion passed by voice vote.

Staff said picnic tables and other site amenities will be added; the playground equipment vendor and installation timeframe were discussed and staff estimated the new playground would have a 10–12 year expected lifecycle once installed.

The committee will send the approved design to the city council for final authorization to contract construction work.