DOOR COUNTY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – A new playground is open for business at Peninsula State Park in Fish Creek.
Officials say the site will give people the chance to play while visiting the beach.
From the traditional slide and climbing area to a covered, reclining swing, Peninsula State Park leaders say the new playground has a lot to offer, but they say the flexible foundation is what truly sets the place apart.
“There’s not too many options making it accessible for all. So, in order to have a wheelchair on there — but also making sure that kids aren’t playing on a concrete surface — they go with these recycled tires surfaces, which are very squishy,” said Eric Hyde, Peninsula State Park Superintendent.
Hyde says the old playground failed a safety inspection and was dismantled last year. The non-profit group Friends of Peninsula State Park raised $132,000 to replace it.
“This was the original spot where the playground was. People did not want it moved,” said Chris Holicek, Friends of Peninsula State Park President.
Holicek tells FOX 11 the familiar site is next to the Nicolet Bay Beach Shelter.
“When they are out in the beach, swimming or picnicking or whatever, and their kids can run over here, they want to be able to watch them. And it’s easy accessible for kids to go back and forth, beach, playground, beach, playground.”
Park leaders say the new playground compliments other improvements at Peninsula. The accessible Eagle Tower was dedicated last year. The 60-foot tall structure features an 850-foot long wooden boardwalk which winds through the woods to the top.
“Making sure anytime we can get anything accessible to all, we do that,” said Hyde.
Back on the ground, play continues. Many visitors say their ride on the flush-mounted merry go-round is worth the whirl.
Officials say more improvements could be coming to Peninsula State Park, including accessible trails by the nature center.
