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Madison approves removal of worn playground equipment at East Centre Park
Summary
Commission voted to remove playground equipment at East Centre Park after staff reported low public use and survey responses favoring removal or repurpose; staff estimated new equipment costs at $75,000–$150,000 if the commission later chooses replacement.
The Madison City Commission voted to remove aging playground equipment at East Centre Park after staff told commissioners the equipment is at the end of its useful life and public feedback showed low regular use.
Jamieson said staff and the park board solicited public feedback via a social-media-advertised form and received 25 responses. "In general, they show that the park does have little usage," Jamieson said. Staff presented three options: leave and refurbish the equipment, remove it, or replace it with new equipment; staff recommended removal given condition and recurring flood-related maintenance on the creek-adjacent site. Staff also presented a ballpark replacement cost range of $75,000 to $150,000.
Commissioners raised site-specific concerns, including frequent flooding that washes away surfacing and increases maintenance. Respondents suggested repurposing the space for community gardens or a recreation trail along the creek; staff noted there was no strong consensus to retain and refurbish the equipment.
A commissioner moved to remove the equipment; after a second, the motion passed by voice vote. Staff said removal would be the first step and that the city could later pursue replacement, repurposing or a future grant to fund new equipment.
Next steps: staff will coordinate removal and, if desired later, present options and cost estimates for replacement or repurpose in a future meeting.
