Agenda - Council - 05/12/2026 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Fund and asked if that would be investigated as a potential funding source if the DNR grant is not secured. Parks & Assistant Public Works Director Riverblood explained that the Lawful Gambling Fund is the funding source for the Playground Replacement Program and would be the source of the 50/50 grant match. He explained that if more than $125,000 is given for one project from the Lawful Gambling Fund, that would mean that there would not be a playground replacement in the next year. Commissioner Bennett commented that this is a great plan and he is excited to see how the project turns out. He recognized that this is a high -traffic park, and this would be a good example of how the material could be a benefit in that busy park. Chair Ealain asked if there are any environmental concerns from the poured -in -place surfacing, noting the proximity to the river. Parks Lead Andy Blood replied that he had asked the manufacturer about that, and there were no concerns. He explained that the material is porous and therefore the water should filter through rather than sheeting off. Parks & Assistant Public Works Director Riverblood commented on the different organizations that recognize and approve this product. He was confident that there were no environmental concerns with the material. He provided additional explanation on the different blends, such as 50/50, noting that the blend includes 50 percent new material and 50 percent recycled material, whereas the 100 percent blend is virgin material and would have a slightly longer lifespan. He noted the additional sealing treatments that can be done to extend the lifespan of the material as well. He noted that staff would provide additional information on the cost savings in terms of maintenance activities. Commissioner Arts asked about the lifespan of playground equipment. Parks & Assistant Public Works Director Riverblood commented that vendors provide a lifespan of 15 years, whereas the City typically realizes 20 years before maintenance concerns start to come forward. He noted that the City has moved away from wood decks, as those do not tend to stand the test of time. Commissioner Arts asked what was used at Central Park. Parks Lead Andy Blood replied that artificial turf was used and that it has a similar cost. He noted that the turf was chosen for that park because of the tendency for children to use the park with cleats on. Motion by Commissioner Bennett, seconded by Commissioner Arts, to affinn that Flagship Recreation's proposal to include poured -in -place surfacing is the preferred solution for the Riverdale Park playground replacement, and a recommendation on proceeding will occur later in 2026 when the available funding is known. Park and Recreation Commission/ March 12, 2026 Page 3 of 6