Playground Replacement Program 2026 — Riverdale Park

Late in 2021, City Council approved the Playground Replacement Policy which informs the city on which playgrounds are to be replaced and when. In 2022, the city removed two small antiquated play structures that did not merit replacement, and refurbished the playgrounds at both Peltzer and Rabbit Park's pursuant to the policy and plan. Between 2023 and 2024 the playground at River's Bend was refurbished and Alpine Park's was replaced and greatly expanded. In 2025 Central Park was also replaced with a significant expansion in scope and play components.  

In summary, the city remains on track in replacing one playground each year, consistent with the policy. As part of the approval of the 2026-2035 Capital Improvement Plan, the estimated cost of the annual playground replacements rose from $100k to an estimated $125k.  This target amount may be enough for the 2026 replacement of the playground at Riverdale Park.

 

The Public Hearing on the 2026-2035 city-wide Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) conducted in December 2025, included the 2026 playground replacement this case discusses.

As the 2026 CIP project pages outlines, each of the playgrounds at Solstice, Flintwood Terrace and Riverdale Parks are 'due' for replacement.  Staff conducted an analysis and comparisons of all three, and found that Flintwood Terrace and Riverdale Park merit replacement more so than Solstice Park. Based upon a significant number of playground patrons at Riverdale Park over Flintwood Terrace, staff is recommending focusing on Riverdale Park this year, with Flintwood Terrace likely the replacement subject for 2027.

If the Commission supports the above, staff will continue with the development of a Request for Proposals, with the goal of bringing back options for consideration.

Staff recommends proceeding with the replacement of Riverdale Park's playground in 2026. 

By motion or consensus, acknowledge that Riverdale Park is the subject of the 2026 playground replacement project.