Wrangell’s playgrounds are old and need more than short-term patching and patchwork repairs. As it looks toward fundraising for substantial upgrades, the parks and recreation department wants to hear what the community wants.
The department is conducting an online survey — just half-a-dozen questions — to learn what features and equipment are important to people at Shoemaker Park Playground and the Kyle Angerman Playground near the library downtown.
“We’re just trying to get a basic idea of which playground people use” and what they want to see at the play areas, Parks and Rec Director Lucy Robinson said last week.
“We realize our playgrounds are in desperate need of revitalization, and that no amount of painting, wrenching or duct taping is going to solve our playground woes,” the department said in its announcement of the survey.
“We are planning ahead for playground upgrades and potential funding opportunities, and we need your help. We want to know which playground should be our priority,” the announcement said.
The survey is available online at surveymonkey.com/r/R9CRRZG.
In addition to seeking government grants, Robinson said Parks and Rec will look to local fundraising, including work parties. “I really want to make them the community playgrounds.”
The department does not have any cost estimates, and Robinson noted the work could be done in phases to stretch out the spending.
Both playgrounds need new surfaces and new equipment that will be compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act, she said.
The department is soliciting on the community Facebook page and in emails to recruit sponsors for playground improvements.
“We need you to help bring our playgrounds back to life,” according to postings for the Playground Revitalization Sponsorship Initiative.
Suggested donor levels start at $250 and range up to $5,000, which will be honored with a plaque at the playground. “Whether big or small, your contribution goes directly toward new equipment, safety upgrades and revitalization efforts.”
The department is also looking for community members to help with installation, maintenance and fundraising efforts. Email director Robinson at lrobinson@wrangell.com.
The downtown playground was dedicated and renamed the Kyle Angerman Memorial Playground in 2000 in honor of Kyle Prescott Angerman who died in a work-related incident in 1999 at age 38.
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