Two popular spots in Kennewick’s Columbia Park reopen June 15 – just in time for summer.
A dedication ceremony is at 11 a.m. for the Toyota of Tri-Cities Playground of Dreams and at noon for the Columbia River Landing building at the newly renamed Columbia Park Golf Tri-Plex.
The celebration includes live music, prizes, demonstrations and half-price membership specials at the Columbia Park Golf Tri-Plex from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The
playground replaces the weathered and deteriorating wood structure originally
built by donors and volunteers in 1999.
The
rebuild ensures the legacy of the Toyota of Tri-Cities Playground of Dreams
continues for future generations, said Parks and Recreation Director Emily
Estes-Cross in a news release.
“We’re
grateful and wish to honor those that had the vision to build the first
playground, and thankful to the community for its continued commitment two
decades later to fund a safe, inclusive, dream-worthy playground,” Estes-Cross
said.
The
1,600-square-foot structure is constructed of durable materials that resist
heat and splinters, includes custom elements iconic of the Tri-Cities, and
features an inclusive design that enables kids of various abilities to play
side-by-side with their peers.
In
addition to Toyota of Tri-Cities, the $1 million rebuild has been financially
supported by the Tri-City Water Follies, Columbia Center Rotary, Port of
Kennewick, Laborers Union Local 348, KVEW TV, Conover Insurance, Permobil
Foundation, a donation fund balance from the original Playground
of Dreams construction and $325,000 from the city budget.
Inscribed
pickets bought by donors that made up the fence line of the original playground
are available for pickup at the Southridge Sports and Events Complex during
business hours through Aug. 6.
More information is available at Go2Kennewick.com/PlaygroundOfDreams.
The
2,600-square-foot Columbia River Landing facility features a full-service
kitchen and 1,200-square-foot patio with river views, in addition to hosting
golf course operations.
It
replaces the original golf course clubhouse that was constructed in 1961.
The rebranded Tri-Plex offers 18 holes of traditional golf on a
3-par course, foot golf and disc golf.