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Parks commission backs narrowed-footprint playscape with climbing net for Aurand Park
Summary
The New Baltimore Parks & Recreation Commission unanimously recommended Concept 4 for an Aurand Park playscape — a narrowed-footprint design featuring a 12-foot climbing net — with Council review expected in May; $150,000 in community donations cover most costs, leaving about $22,921 to be made up from Jingle Bell Run proceeds.
The New Baltimore Parks & Recreation Commission voted unanimously April 2 to recommend Concept 4 — a narrowed-footprint playscape that includes a 12-foot climbing net — to City Council for final approval.
Parks & Recreation Director Adam Abraham told commissioners the grant tied to the project covers roughly 50% of equipment costs and that Bay‑Rama Fishfly Festival has donated $150,000 toward the playscape. Abraham said the option presented as Concept 4 reduced the overall footprint by about 1,500 square feet while keeping the same play elements; the final cost of that option was listed as $172,921, with the difference funded by proceeds from the Jingle Bell Run.
Abraham said New Baltimore DIPS will remove the existing equipment and prepare the site, after which Sinclair Recreation will do construction; he estimated a 12‑ to 14‑week timeline from final City Council approval to ribbon cutting. Abraham described play differences across concepts, saying the 12‑foot climbing net was included after staff requested a “wow factor,” and noted the net can support play that builds grip strength, inversion skills and balance. He also said swings from the existing structure can be repurposed for Ruedisale Pointe Park.
Commissioner Eric Haydamack moved to recommend Concept 4 and request additional Jingle Bell Run funding; Commissioner Eric Kronner seconded the motion. The motion carried with all voting yes. Six commissioners were present and one was absent.
The commission also confirmed that borders and engineered wood fiber were included in the company pricing and that the climbing‑net equipment carries a 10‑year warranty. Abraham told the commission he plans to bring the recommendation to City Council at its first May meeting.
