At its Dec. 9 meeting, the Board of Aldermen authorized the purchase of the replacement large playground for Spellman Park. This decision follows community input, including a survey that helped shape the final design.
Previously, on Sept. 23, the Board approved the purchase of a replacement toddler playground. With both the large and small playgrounds now moving forward, the park is on track to welcome new play spaces in 2026.
Both playgrounds were closed on Sept. 10 due to safety concerns, though the swings and rock wall remain open for play. Issues included bent decking, exposed metal where surfacing had worn away, cracked or missing slide pieces, and failing steps. On the toddler playground specifically, the slide had lost all of its surfacing, creating a rough edge that could scratch or cut legs. For the safety of the community, the City closed both playgrounds until replacements can be installed.