The Town of Sylvan Lake has gone to its residents to hear what kind of playground they want to see in Centennial Park.
A $250,000 budget has been set aside to replace the popular playground in the lakefront park, which is starting to show its age and its limitations, given how many children flock to it.
“It’s got some wear and tear and we need to replace it for safety reasons, as well as ensuring its long-term sustainability. It will be there for a while,” said Joanne Gaudet, town communications officer.
“So, we just asked Sylvan Lakers what makes for a great playground.”
An online survey was put up on the town’s website to get feedback, and by Tuesday, had well over 200 respondents.
Monkey bars and slides are a given, but there are all sort of other components that the town wants some input on, as well as whether it should carry a theme.
“We have a lot of open-ended questions because we want to hear what is important for them,” she said.
“Certainly, there’s got to be a level of accessibility for various age groups and abilities.”
Among the suggestions already proving popular is ensuring there is plenty of seating for parents and caregivers around the playground.
The survey asks basic background questions such as the age of respondents’ children, where they live and how often they use the playground.
People are asked to rank their most important components, such as swings, slides; net, panel or rock climbing panels, or exercise equipment.
Opinions are also sought on what sort of play surface should be created: sand, wood fibre, rubber or a combination.
Gaudet said the survey is only open until March 6 because the town wants to move quickly on the project so it is ready for summer, assuming spring weather co-operates.