Phase 2 will complete the playground with a shade covered playspace for the toddlers.

We thought we had the funding in 2022 to build the entire playground…

BUT, when the project went out to bid in the cost was well above the estimated cost, and thus changes needed to be made. Unfortunately, we had to leave out the designated play area for the 2-5 year olds in Phase 1.

Phase 1 was completed and opened to the Public in November 2022. In addition to the playground itself, overall access to HJ Carroll Park was improved with more accessible parking spots and accessible pathways from the parking lot. The play areas and equipment within JUMP! are mostly for the 5-12 year olds. The swing set, musical instruments, artwork and seating in the Sea Snail plaza are for multi-age, all enclosed with perimeter fencing for safe play without worrying if your child might run off.

On to Phase 2:

JUMP! continued fundraising efforts throughout 2023 & 2024 to complete the playground as designed. JUMP! worked with the County to submit a grant to the Dan Thompson Memorial Fund through the state Developmental Disabilities Council to fund Phase 2 of the playground. The grant was submitted in January 2024, and the County learned they were awarded the full grant request to complete the playground in May 2024. Jefferson County Public Works received the grant contract from the State in July 2024. The Jefferson County BOCC (Board of County Commissioners) approved & signed the contract in August. The playground vendor finalized the design in October and the BOCC signed the purchase order for the playground equipment and shade structures in November 2024.

What to expect:

The surfacing will be the same recycled rubber tiles as under the swing set, nice and cushiony for beginning walkers and toddlers. There will be shade structures over the Sea Snail Plaza, the Orcas & the new play structure. A new Art Gate will be installed at the other entrance off of the perimeter trail. The Orcas will be painted gray & white to reduce surface temperatures so they will be available for year-round play. We will also be installing a bilingual Communication Board better suited to the playground. It includes a QR code that allows users to download a free speech-generating app. This mobile app mirrors the images and symbols on the board, enabling users to communicate directly from their mobile devices—whether at the playground, bus stop, or community event.

There are plans for a temporary closure of approximately 2 months starting in Early to mid-january to install the playground, shade structures and new art gate, along with painting of the orcas.