Vimy’s Lions Park Playground is getting an $8,800 upgrade after a report concluded the 39-year-old structure is a safety risk.
Westlock County council voted unanimously to approve the work at its April 24 meeting.
An inspection of the playground determined it was a class B1 risk, meaning there was a very likely chance of serious injury on the equipment, with the potential for broken bones on some structures.
Safety issues include a lack of sand or other soft material around the structures and the height of the equipment. The chains and swings also need to be replaced.
Councillors initially looked at the issue their April 10 meeting, but postponed a vote until they could confirm the extent of Vimy Lions involvement. The county owns the park and the land it is built on.
“I spoke to the Lions club,” said Coun. Jared Stitsen.
“They did not construct the park but have been cutting the grass and maintaining it.
“They’re more focused on the other park which they have the lease on.”
Stitsen said he was able to confirm it gets regular use from the community.
The fence was put around the site because of concerns of soccer balls going onto the road.
Chief administrative officer Leo Ludwig said that work will start this summer.
“It should be done soon,” he said. “Now with the snow melted, the kids will probably have cabin fever.”
He noted they want to get started sooner than later pointing out that should anything happen there, the county would be liable.
Councillors also looked at the possibility of removing the park altogether for $4,000, but decided to repair it for the benefits it brings to the community.
“It just needs to be brought up to standards and it will be money well spent,” said Stitsen. “It’s one of those keepers.”
