News

Oct 19, 2024

Silver Beach playground plans moving forward

Exciting changes are coming to Silver Beach Park, where plans for a brand-new playground are in the work, replacing the one that stood for over 30 years. The old equipment, once filled with laughter

Exciting changes are coming to Silver Beach Park, where plans for a brand-new playground are in the work, replacing the one that stood for over 30 years.

The old equipment, once filled with laughter and joy, has officially been removed, leaving behind an empty space and sand, now marking the start of a new chapter for the park.

Silver Beach will soon have a new playground where those of all ages and abilities to enjoy.

"One of the great features that we are excited about bringing is the accessibility factor so we do have barrier free access points and safety surfacing underneath. We want children of all abilities, as well as older kids, parents, grandparents, to all be able to get in on and around this playground," saidJill Adams, Berrien County Parks Department Director.

Plans also include graduated play levels, doubling the number of swings, and new features, like a replica lifeguard tower, set to inspire imaginative play and emphasize water safety.

It's also not the end for the old equipment—parts in good condition will go to the village of Eau Claire to be reused in two of their parks ensuring the legacy of the playground continues.

Adams noted that due to strong interest in park equipment from the community, churches, and nonprofits, the best way to reuse it is to return it to public use.

Eau Claire Village was the only municipality to reach out and consistently engage.

"Even though that play structure was over 30 years old, there were still some newer additions to it, some new pieces that are still serviceable, so they’re gonna try to find anything they can that will work and kind of incorporate it into their parks," said Jaysen Field, Berrien County Environmental Property Manager.

Adams said the new park equipment has been ordered, and they plan to meet with their construction company next week to finalize details.

"In the meantime, we’re gonna have this fence up at Silver Beach. We’re gonna have to reroute traffic around it. We don’t want people interfering with what’s going on for their safety and also the crew safety as well," said Field.

With the goal of raising $1.25 million for the project, the county is 91% of the way there, still needing roughly $108,000 dollars.

They said they will move forward with the project with the funds they do have, and work accordingly as they continue to grow towards their goal.

"It was such a fantastic playground for so many people for generations, but we are really excited about bringing the next generation of playground," said Adams.

The project will begin with underground work with the park project continuing through the fall before resuming in the spring.

Officials added weather is the primary factor on how long this project will take.