Okemos board reviews Hiawatha playground replacement; Midstates Recreation quoted for turnkey installation

Administration told the board that the Hiawatha Elementary playground has reached the end of its useful life; staff said several original structures are failing and replacement parts are no longer available. Principal Joe Korr and Operations Director Brian Lieber described parent, staff and PTO input used to select a modular, ADA‑compliant design that increases creative-play opportunities and doubles swing capacity, including an ADA swing.

Staff presented visuals and site diagrams showing the new structure’s footprint on the southernmost portion of the playground. The selected equipment is modular so broken components can be replaced without closing the entire structure. Midstates Recreation provided a cooperative turnkey quote — staff said the vendor would remove the old structure, complete site work and install the new equipment.

Administration outlined next steps: final design approvals in January–February, demolition as soon as the ground thaws (target spring break), and installation complete by April or May (weather permitting). The board was told a request for flood‑removal approval will be brought to the next meeting.

Trustees asked clarification questions about timeline, cost and whether temporary accommodations for recess would be needed; staff said the vendor estimated a quick install (about one to two weeks once on site) and that the project team tried to schedule demolition during a school break.

Next step: administration will return with final design approvals and the flood‑removal request for a formal vote at the next board meeting.