Montgomery officials are looking at new playground and fitness upgrades for Homecoming Park as part of a planned park improvement project.
During an April 28 Montgomery City Council meeting, Tim Duckworth with Cunningham Recreation presented a proposal for new equipment at the park, including a play structure, swings, shaded areas and outdoor fitness equipment. No vote was taken.
What happened
City officials said $200,000 was set aside during last year’s budget process for park improvements, with the goal of making major upgrades at Homecoming Park.
The proposed project totals about $192,300, according to the presentation. Duckworth said the city was also able to apply about $51,993 in state initiative funding, bringing down the cost of the equipment package.
The details
The proposed playground is designed as a “play on” concept, meaning it focuses on keeping children active through climbing, balancing, swinging, sliding, spinning and overhead activities, Duckworth said.
The plan includes:
- New playground equipment
- Swings, including toddler seats and a disc swing
- A spring rider
- A stand-up seesaw
- Two shade canopies over the playground
- Americans with Disabilities Act-approved features, including a transfer platform
- Outdoor fitness equipment near the playground
Duckworth said the fitness area is intended to give parents and older children something to use while younger children play nearby. The compact fitness system would include equipment for exercises such as dips, crunches, box jumps, pushups, situps and overhead climbing.
By the numbers
The proposed equipment package, including playground and fitness equipment, was estimated at $226,457.47 before the state initiative funding was applied, according to the presentation.
After the funding and shipping costs were included, the equipment total came to $184,979. Additional contracting work, including installation and site work, brought the overall project total to about $192,300.
Also of note
Council members also asked about durability, warranties and surfacing. Duckworth said public playground equipment is often replaced on a 15-to-20-year cycle, though some systems can last longer with repairs and routine maintenance.
The proposed surfacing is engineered wood fiber, which Duckworth said is more cost-effective and does not get as hot as some rubber surfaces, though it does require maintenance.
Stay tuned
City officials said the Homecoming Park design could still see minor changes, such as color adjustments, but the city would need to stay close to the proposed playground setup to keep the current funding opportunity.
Staff also said Cedar Brake Park could be next in line for upgrades. Duckworth is expected to visit that park and provide numbers that could be discussed during the next budget process.