Altus AFB set to replace aging playground

  • Published
  • By by Senior Airman Dillon Davis
  • 97th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
ALTUS AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  Altus AFB has begun replacing the aging playgrounds at Excellence Park Oct. 16.

“In late 2014, the playgrounds at Excellence Park, were determined to be unsafe based on playground safety guidance,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Greg Reich, 97th Civil Engineer Squadron commander. “The 97th Air Mobility Wing Safety Office, 97th Force Support Squadron and 97th CES independently inspected the playgrounds and came up with the same conclusion that they both needed to be replaced.”

The playgrounds were inspected for a variety of safety issues.

“Hazards at the playgrounds included protruding bolts, jagged metal, missing ladders and compacted sand that could result in a fall-related injury,” said Reich.

Demolition of one of the existing infrastructures took place on Oct. 16.

“The large playground equipment set was demolished immediately and repairs were made to the remaining playground to help lower the risk until a new playground is in place,” said Reich.

“The park will include many ‘old fashioned’ equipment pieces,” said Reich. “The design was completed by the 97th CES with an eye for fun as well as safety and sustainability in the future. Each piece can be replaced in years to come without a total park shutdown. Look for the construction to begin soon and enjoy the new playground with your family.