Public Information Meeting: Olbrich Park Nature Play Area

Background

The Parks Division maintains a replacement schedule for all of the city’s playgrounds and the playground at Olbrich Park near Lakeland Ave. was identified for removal this year. The typical lifespan of post and platform playground equipment is 20-30 years, and this playground has passed the standard expected lifespan. The playground was removed in early July 2023.

Parks has reviewed the location of the playground in the context of other playgrounds in the vicinity, and has decided to install a nature play area rather than a post and platform playground in this location. There are traditional post and platform playgrounds located nearby at Elmside Circle Park, Olbrich Park (Garrison St), and Olbrich Park (Walter St.). Nature play areas typically offer more open-ended play opportunities compared to conventional playgrounds. By providing natural materials and landscapes, children are encouraged to use their creativity and problem-solving skills to invent their own games and explore their surroundings. This approach fosters a sense of independence and self-directed learning, promoting cognitive and social development.