FISH CREEK, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — Fundraising is underway to build a new playground at Peninsula State Park in Fish Creek. At Nicolet Beach, a single sign marks the area where a playground once stood. COVID-19 concerns closed the area in 2020, and this summer, the entire playground was taken down.
“We need a new playground. The old playground was rotting, and we had to dismantle it for safety reasons,” said Friends of Peninsula State Park Secretary Judy Ortiz. “So we wanted to build a new playground and the playground that we want to build is inclusive. Everybody will be able to use it.”
Ortiz says the site will be handicap-accessible, and feature 18 different play structures, including a wheelchair-friendly merry-go-round.
“It’s right next to the shelter, so the parents can sit in the shade and watch them. The shelter is ADA-compliant too, and they’ll be able to sit right there, right next to the kids and enjoy watching them play,” she said.
Friends group leaders say the playground would compliment other improvements at the park, like the recently-completed Eagle Tower.
“We helped with the tower, and the ramp, and made the nature center more accessible. So, this was our next step,” said Chris Holicek, Friends of Peninsula State Park President.
A fundraising campaign started a couple weeks ago to raise $120,000 to pay for the project. About half of that has been pledged so far.
“We just really wanted to rebuild it, but to make sure that everybody can enjoy it,” said Holicek.
“They’re just used to having the kids down there, and that’s where all the activity is, the beach. Without a playground, it has really been missed, considerably,” said Ortiz.
Officials say once the money is secured, construction can begin.
The project is expected to be completed by next summer.
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