Spring Crest and Painted Woods West neighborhoods in Waukee to get new playgrounds in 2025
Waukee's parks and recreation department revealed the designs for the two new playgrounds to be located at Spring Crest and Painted Woods West neighborhoods in western Waukee.
The two playgrounds are the first in their respective communities and both are expected to open in the fall of 2025. According to a news release from Waukee Parks and Recreation, the designs were modified based on feedback from residents.
The projects were announced alongside plans to revamp the currently existing Centennial Park in central Waukee.
More: Centennial Park's main playground gets new equipment and more shade in Waukee this fall
According to Heather Behrens, marketing and communications director for the city of Waukee, the city hasn't chosen a contractor yet, so the exact price and schedule hasn't been pinned down. However, both projects are expected to begin in the summer of 2025 and finish that fall. For more information, call Waukee Parks and Recreation at 515-978-0007.
Spring Crest Park
Spring Crest Park will be developed over three phases. The playground is phase one and will take up about 5 of the 13-acre park near the intersection of 11th and Spruce St. Behrens said the cost is estimated to be around $2 million.
The playground will include three zones for different age groups, but will have line of sight on all areas from most parts. The design includes all the typical equipment like swings, slides and climbing things, as well as a more unique installation for hillside play.
The hillside zone features more unique climbing equipment, as well as a roller slide. According to the news release, a similar feature is a favorite of Waukee's Triumph Park.
Future additions to the site will include a sand volleyball court, pickleball courts and a rental pavilion. Plans for those phases have not been released.
Painted Woods West Park
The Painted Woods West playground design is reminiscent of treehouses. Along with a half-basketball court and some trails, the park will cover 8.5 acres on Indian Ridge Drive. According to Behrens, this playground is estimated to cost around $3 million.
The most unique feature of the park is a series of connected tree houses, the tallest of which is 16 feet. The feature will be situated among naturally occurring trees, providing the feeling of exploring treetops.
This park was also designed with inclusivity in mind. It has a small in-ground trampoline that will be able to accommodate mobility aids and a bowl swing at transfer height for wheelchair users.
Ryan Magalhães is a reporter for the Register. Reach them at rmagalhaes@dmreg.com.
This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Waukee announces designs for two new playgrounds