More fun is on the way to Edmond, Oklahoma, just in time for the spring and summer. The spacecraft-themed Chitwood Park will launch a fun, new design for kids of all ages in March, weather permitting of course. The design will expand on the current spacecraft theme of the old rocket slide with new custom-made playground equipment.
The original rocket slide has become somewhat of a safety issue over the years. Children are able to crawl through spaces that they shouldn't have and pull bars off. The rocket slide was added to Chitwood Park in the late 1960s. Many of Edmond's adult residents can remember playing on the rocket slide as a child.
Since the rocket slide is no longer in compliance with the Consumer Product Safety Commission guidelines, the Edmond Parks and Recreation Department decided to remove it and add a new custom made one. The new playground will also be in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, which will allow every child with a disability to enjoy the playground equipment, too. Padding around areas of the playground will also be added for softer landings.
The Parks and Recreation Department decided almost five years ago, as part of a five-year strategic plan, to update the facility with custom made equipment totaling just over $100,000. Usually, the neighborhood association members assist with updating area parks, but the Chitwood Neighborhood Alliance was not formed until 2007. So, the Parks and Recreation Department is doing it themselves.
Edmond residents seem really excited about the update to the park. It will be the most unique playground in all of Edmond's parks system. It really shows that Edmond is looking into the future.
Edmond, Oklahoma Community Information
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