Sioux Falls Parks Getting New Equipment

SIOUX FALLS, SD - Mark Struck takes his four kids to Sioux Falls parks on a pretty regular basis.

"We like to get out and use the different parks as well as the pools and anytime that there's something new for the kids to go play on they love it," Struck said.

And his kids are about to get pretty happy. That's because the Parks and Rec Department is replacing playground equipment at
three parks: Spencer, Dunham and Laurel Oak.

Parks and Recreation Director Don Kearney says it's part of a 20 year replacement schedule to keep equipment up to date and safe.

"We're very concerned about the safety of our playgrounds and the accessibility of our playgrounds. And so having this playground replacement program is really beneficial," Kearney said.

A big part of the new equipment going into city parks are rubber padding surfaces. They're both more accessible for people with disabilities and economical for the city because it doesn't need the maintenance required for wood chips or sand.

"Initially it's more expensive, but in the long run, it really saves the taxpayers money," Kearney said.

And it's safer too.

The improvements to the three parks will cost $70,000 a piece.

"Well, we think it's a pretty good deal, especially when you're dealing with kids safety," Kearney said.

And parents like the sound of that.

"It's good to see they keep investing in them and wanting people to keep using them," Struck said.

Construction on the new equipment started at Spencer and Laurel Oak parks Tuesday. Work will begin at Dunham Park later this month.