Letter to the Editor: South Front Street Playground Enhancement Project

To the Editor:

I would like to give an update on the South Front Street Playground Enhancement Project. We have just received notice that our project is the recipient of a $10,000 grant from the Allamakee County Community Foundation, which will be presented at a reception at the Empty Nest Winery April 18.

The capital campaign is doing quite well; however, we still have a long way to go to reach our goal. In recent weeks, it was brought to my attention that there is a handicapped ten-year-old in the community who would benefit from a handicap accessible playground. After seeking more information concerning handicap accessible playgrounds, I learned there are less than ten American Disabilities Act approved playgrounds in Iowa. Hopefully, our project will be one.

We are receiving final drawings and costs from two suppliers soon. The base surface near the playground equipment will be engineered wood fiber from a plant in Cresco. A fish-shaped bicycle rack will be made by Lucky Duck in Lansing. We will be adding up to eight benches for people to use as they observe the children playing. Quality Tree Service in Lansing will assist in the planting of up to ten trees for shade. A concrete sidewalk will be added to aid in the transport of those needing a wheel chair.

We will be in need of volunteers for installation of the equipment at a date to be determined this summer. Oden Sign Service is working with us to design signage to thank those who contributed financially or in kind to the project. We owe a big thank you to all who have made a financial or ‘in kind’ donation.

Keep watching for the Paddle Wheel Steamer to arrive at the playground.

For the Kids,
Arlen Wonderlich
Lansing