Big Rapids city officials are looking to expand the recreational amenities offered to its citizens.

 

A number of ideas were brought up at Thursday's Parks and Recreation Board meeting, such as a new splash pad, or a outdoor skating rink, or new tennis courts.

 

One issue that Assistant City Manager Mark Gifford brought to the forefront is replacing the playscape at Hemlock Park.

 

Gifford pointed out that the structure was recently inspected for safety and it's still in good shape. However...

 

“It's 20 years old, they're designed to last 20 years. Ours has been maintained very well so we're getting a little extra life out of it,” he says.

 

Gifford notes that the playscape is not only aging, but it also is not in in compliance with current Americans with Disability Act rules.

 

“We're at the point where we need to start looking into the future about how we're going to replace that equipment.”

 

And, a new structure is not a minor investment.

 

“To put in a whole new playground system is $250,000 approximately,” says Gifford.

 

He explains, however, it is an investment in the community that people have come to expect.

 

“It's a big issue. A lot of people in the community appreciate having it there, it's used very, very much.”

 

The board noted that word needs to be gotten out to the community so that planning and fund raising can begin similar to the “Friends of Playscape” effort that was utilized in the 1990's.