Unveiling La Grande's Riverside Playground Dream

Project Overview

Recently, La Grande Parks and Rec Commission Chairman David Moyal and Parks and Rec Director Stu Spence provided detailed information about the upcoming playground. A spring 2025 groundbreaking is on the horizon, and an impressive $408,184 grant from the Oregon State Parks Department's Local Government Grant Program has been secured. This significant financial boost will help bring the project to life.

Even more recently, Parks and Rec Committee member Sharron Langdon shed light on the project's progress. Construction of the new playground is scheduled to begin around May 2025, with the existing playground being dismantled during this time. The demolition and construction process is estimated to take approximately 3 weeks. To ensure a smooth transition, the committee will start bringing in additional contractors and workers in the first quarter of 2025.

Fundraising for Benches

While the main playground fundraising has been successfully completed, the committee is now focused on raising funds for 5 durable and long-lasting playground-approved benches. These benches are essential for providing seating areas within the playground. As Sharron explained, each bench costs $2,500, and they are manufactured specifically for playground use. The committee aims to secure this last piece of funding at the start of the new year.

For community members with sentimental attachments to the old playground, the committee is still working out the details of handling souvenirs. One notable exception is the fence pickets with names on them. There will likely be an opportunity during construction for community members to retrieve their pickets if they wish. Additionally, the handprint tiles will remain as they are and become a part of the new playground.

Construction Details and Future

As construction approaches, more details about the park structure will be confirmed. The committee is committed to ensuring that the new playground meets the highest standards and provides a safe and enjoyable environment for children and families. Donations can be made by contacting Stu Spence at 541-962-1348 or by visiting the project's website at https://lagrandeplayground.org/?fbclid=IwAR3rhUmFZjYfbniaUkS_Iul9rwC1rzzj5HR4XKZsr03f7WIZqgZgNVhcplU_aem_AcuLBsXOvpMYz35PzBgZ1qmo95ZaDjUtD37ahQy_Ct3-nC0FeWZXw31yLdW2oOFETQHKa1Hj9RP3UP3W7z4ecj5i.

The La Grande community is eagerly awaiting the completion of this new playground, which will become a centerpiece of the city and a place for generations to come. With the hard work and dedication of the committee and various stakeholders, the dream of a vibrant riverside playground is becoming a reality.