Springwood Park on Kent’s East Hill will have a whole new look by this time next year after a $2.9 million renovation.
The Kent City Council approved a bid by Algona-based Terra Dynamics Inc. at its March 19 meeting to perform the work at the popular neighborhood park. The company had the lowest responsible bid out of eight bids.
Once completed in early 2025, Springwood Park, 12700 SE 274th St., will include a multi-sport court that will incorporate both futsal (a modified game of soccer) and basketball, a park shelter with tables, a bench swing, play areas that include one playground for kids ages 2 to 5 and one for children ages 5 to 12, swings, zip line and a cooling station spray feature to cool off kids in the summer.
“It’s a major playground renovation and will be a much bigger playground,” said Terry Jungman, city Parks planning and development manager, in his report to the council.
Other upgrades include an open lawn with new irrigation and drainage, and improvements to pathway circulation and ADA connectivity.
“With completion of this project, the public can expect to see a vibrant and active park space that encourages use from all members of the surrounding community,” Jungman said in a March 21 email.
Parks staff also will bring back a former hill slide, for children and adults.
Construction is expected to start in late April, Jungman said. The park will close for renovations.
“Construction is anticipated for one year, so we would expect the park to reopen around this time next year,” Jungman said. “This is obviously pending any delays that may be incurred during construction.”
People who use the trails in the park will be given some other options.
“We are working on the plan for neighborhood walking routes because the trails in the park are really popular,” Jungman said.
City Councilmember Zandria Michaud, who lives near the park, proudly supported the renovation.
“I am so excited,” Michaud said at the council meeting. “We have been talking about this. In 2009 I moved into my house and I’ve been looking forward to this for a long time. I know neighbors are excited. It will be a great asset for the entire community. I’m looking forward to the spray feature.”
Contractor Terra Dynamics is the same company that did a $3.16 million renovation of West Fenwick Park, 3808 S. Reith Road, in 2020. That project included a new field, playground and picnic shelter.
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A rendering of a playground for children ages 2 to 5 at Springwood Park. COURTESY IMAGE, City of Kent Parks
A multisport court to be installed this year at Springwood Park. COURTESY IMAGE, City of Kent Parks
