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

We thought we had the funding…

to build the entire playground when the County put the project out to bid. However, like most things since Covid, prices went up and we had to go back to the drawing board.

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.

Unfortunately, we had to leave out the designated play area for the 2-5 year olds in Phase 1. JUMP! worked with the County to write and submit a grant to the Dan Thompson Memorial Fund through the state Developmental Disabilities Council to fund Phase 2 of the playground. JUMP! and the County recently learned they were awarded the full grant request to complete the playground!!! As of June 1st, Jefferson County Public Works is awaiting the contract from the State in order to proceed with the project.

The surfacing will be the same tan tiles as under the swing set, nice and cushiony for beginning walkers and toddlers. There will be shade over the Sea Snail Plaza and the new play structure, and a new Art Gate will be installed off of the perimeter trail. The County is also negotiating with the Orcas manufacturer to help cover costs of a shade structure over them so they can be utilized all year long. See photos below for what will be included in Phase 2.

Stay Tuned for updates on signing of the contract and projected timeline for groundbreaking and completion of the playground.