City of Beloit Release Final Turtle Island Playground Renderings

After incorporating significant public input, the renderings for the future Turtle Island Playground have been updated. Construction is anticipated for fall 2024 with completion by the end of 2024.

 

The City of Beloit Department of Public Works’ Parks & Recreation Division received over 800 survey responses on the playgrounds. As a result of the survey, the following changes were made:

 

• An accessible merry-go-round will be installed with the accessible turtle swing in the north corner of the site. The climbing hill in the north corner of the park will be removed to create space for these amenities.
• A toddler playground will be installed where the current sandbox is located. The playground will no longer have a sandbox. The majority of survey takers were in favor of removing the sandbox.
• Sensory boards were added to create an opportunity for children to learn through using senses like touch, sight and hearing.
• Two shade sails were added.
• Additional pour-in-place playground surface will be added around the stream to alleviate clogging in the stream.

 

“The feedback provided by our community members was immensely valued,” said Director of Parks & Recreation Tonya Johann. “The input was not taken lightly and was incorporated into the final design where possible. We look forward to seeing the hundreds and thousands of kids playing at this destination playground for the years to come.”

 

American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding is being used to help fund the playground changes. The playground is currently open but with limited features as the main playground was removed due to safety hazards.

 

While residents overwhelmingly advocated for swings, swings were not added due to the required fall zones that would have reduced the overall footprint of features available in the playground area. Due to space constraints, it was determined to maximize the amount of equipment in the playground.

 

Additional trees will be planted on the perimeter of the playground. Two trees with deteriorating health will be removed due to the condition of the trees and the above-ground roots that created trip hazards and accessibility challenges. The two shade sails were added to help provide additional cooling at the playground.

 

While the drawings are in the final concept, seating and picnic table placement are subject to change.