To the editor:
The Regional District of Central Okanagan wishes to provide some further clarification and information on the concerns expressed by Ann Huculak in her April 11 letter to the editor regarding the Mission Creek Regional Park playground project. (Work Effort by City Parks Crews Disgusting to Watch, Capital News.)
We apologize for the inconvenience caused by the weather-related, seasonal delay in revitalizing this extremely well-used playground. The project is completely managed by staff of the regional district and its contractor.
The letter headline unfortunately incorrectly identified this work was done by city parks crews.
The upgrade and redesign for the play structure was guided with input from several community groups. The playground will provide a range of opportunities for children of all ages and abilities, with a focus on accessibility, varying physical challenges and sensory experiences.
In order to ensure safe conditions, play equipment and safety surfacing (some of which is well over 20 years old) that did not meet current Canadian Standards Association (CSA) standards was removed and replaced. The play equipment and safety surfacing that have been installed all meet current CSA requirements for materials, installation, performance requirements, and safety.
The majority of the work was awarded to a contractor who began work last September. The bulk of the construction was completed during the fall but was put on hold with the onset of winter weather. The remaining safety surfacing requires dry and warm conditions in which to be installed, conditions that will likely be achieved in the next few weeks. Regional Parks staff will complete planting of trees and shrubs on site.
Throughout the closure, we’ve posted information on alternative nearby playgrounds and certainly thank everyone for their patience during this seasonally delayed project. We look forward to opening the new play facility very shortly.
Bruce Smith,
communications & intergovernmental affairs officer,
Regional District of Central Okanagan
