The playground and sports courts in Burkeville, originally built in the 1970s, could be refurbished to the tune of about $600,000.
The playground area serves as the “primary social, recreational, and gathering hub for the tight-knit Burkeville” area, according to city staff, who have been consulting with the Sea Island community on upgrades and refurbishments.
Improvements suggested by city staff include installing a climber, monkey bars and a slide at the playground, and adding more pickleball opportunities.
The swings and zipline at the playground would be retained if the plan is approved by Richmond city council, but the surface would be replaced to improve both accessibility and safety.
Furthermore, the sports court surfaces and equipment would be replaced.
There’s a plan to introduce pickleball at the existing ball hockey court, and possibly add pickleball lines on the tennis court. Ball hockey would then be moved to the basketball courts "for shared play," a report to city council notes.
The "Shaping Hands" public art piece, currently installed at the Sea Island Fire Hall #4, could also be moved to a more prominent spot.
City staff also recommend installing interpretive signs in the neighbourhood to highlight “the rich history of the Burkeville community.”
The Burkeville playground improvements will be dealt with at the upcoming parks, recreation and cultural services committee meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 25.
The city is also replacing the playground at Hugh Boyd Community Park. Its budget is $1.5 million.
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