Officials Approve Park Equipment
Aug 15, 2024 01:06PM ● By Angela UnderwoodHere is a rendering of the new Bogue Park Playground equipment, which includes a state-of-the-art gym apparatus perfect for children between the ages of 5 and 12. Photo courtesy of Yuba City
YUBA CITY, CA (MPG) – Yuba City city officials have replaced two park playgrounds with state-of-the-art equipment this year.
The first was awarding Shanghai Garden Park new equipment in March, due to safety concerns. Then, Community Service Director Ann Gillen told officials that the equipment inspection proved that immediate replacement was due, given its extended 15- to 20-year life span.
The same is true today, with Community Services administrative assistant Maddy Laffond saying, “Safety is our number one priority.”
“Playground equipment’s life span heavily depends on how often it is used, along with how it is treated,” Laffond said.
Installed in 1998, Bogue Park’s playground equipment is the city’s oldest.
In March, Councilmember Marc Boomgaarden shared concerns about the safety of all citywide playground equipment.
That concern was taken seriously with the announcement of the second installation this year. In September 2023, city officials reallocated funds to cover the cost of a new playground, followed by a Yuba City Parks Department-hosted community meeting in November, presenting up to four replacement options for Shanghai Park.
After the public picked their favorite equipment type, funds were appropriated in March and construction began after that. The ceremonial blue ribbon was cut at Shanghai Park at the end of May. Now, according to the community services assistant, it is time for Bogue Park to see the same.
“We continuously evaluate the condition of our playgrounds, and though this playground has lasted longer than most, it is time to replace it,” Laffond said.
In March, Vice-Mayor Dave Shaw asked for an equipment replacement budget for at least 15 years since the city was using some Community Block Grant funds to upgrade parks.
Laffond said the equipment is being purchased this time with Capital Improvement Program (CIP) funds designated for playground replacements.
“City Council awarded the funds through the 24/25 budget process,” Laffond said.
Laffond called Bogue Park one of the city’s “Neighborhood Parks” due to its proximity to a residential region. The park “is typically used by those that live around it,” she said.
“It is the heart of the neighborhood where residents meet and play, increasing social interaction and connections,” according to Laffond, who added residents of all ages enjoy the park and amenities at no cost.
“It allows residents to have access to an outdoor space to play and be active, which improves mental, physical and emotional health,” Laffond said. “A huge thank you to the City Council for approving our budget and all Community Services staff that helped make it all happen.”