In just a short few months last year, fundraisers for Kellan’s Kingdom raised over $100,000 to be used to create Carroll’s first all-inclusive playground. The park, which will have equipment and activities for people of all physical and mental abilities, is also partially funded through a $50,000 donation from the City of Carroll. Now that we are stepping into spring, the city is moving forward with the project plans. Parks and Rec Director, Jack Wardell, says this is a phenomenal project and they are looking forward to getting started.
He says one of the most important things they are doing now is laying the groundwork in the form of a master plan for Northeast Park. This will make room for the Kellan’s Kingdom of today as well as allow for growth over the years.
Northeast Park is about eight acres with one of the largest playground systems in the community on the north side of the park. It also features a basketball court, shelter house and a run area. Wardell says this will bring a lot more activity to the park, and there is really nothing to compare to this in like-sized communities.
The city has approved up to $20,000 in a professional services agreement with Shive Hattery for the topographical and construction survey work and the development of the master plan. Currently, the total cost is sitting at $17,400 for those services. Wardell says the timeline would put the bids back to the city in about seven to eight weeks. Work would be able to start in approximately six to eight weeks after that, and he expects the playground to be fully up and open for use in August. Some of the other park projects are anticipated to be completed in the next five years or so.
