HomeMy WebLinkAboutPed Mall Playground Public Input SubmissionsStart date
Are you the parent or
grandparent of school aged
children?
How often do you visit the
downtown playground?
Is the playground a positive
factor in why you come
downtown?What do you like the most about this new playground concept?What if anything do you dislike about this new playground concept?What is your zip code?What would improve your downtown playground experience?
4/23/2021 1:57 PM No 3 times or more per year Yes It definitely has a really cool design to it.N/A 52245 N/A
4/23/2021 2:05 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The incorporation of art and the book theme.
to see my child. The center structure also seems really imposing. We all know how quickly a child
can run from one end of the playground to the next, and some kids even disappear into the
library. Good sight-lines need to be a design priority. I'm afraid I also don't like how the design is
heavy on primary colors. I would personally vote for neutral colors or a color scheme that blended
with the downtown landscape.52245 Electrical outlets to plug in laptop cords or phone chargers near seating and/or tables.
4/23/2021 2:07 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The bright colors and shade structures are great.
From my observations during many playground visits, the small disconnected structures don't hold
kids' interest for long. Kids seem to gravitate towards the more traditional play structures where
they can run around together.52246 The pandemic being over.
4/23/2021 2:14 PM Yes 3 times or more per year No Inventive shapes and forms.
Too gaudy! Based I suspect on the idea that children like bright colors. I think the colors should be
more subdued more in keeping with the playground it is replacing and downtown in general.52246 Being at least 70 years younger.
4/23/2021 2:15 PM No 3 times or more per year Yes The shade Can’t tell but that slide looks pretty open at the top 52245 Make it bigger or multiple playgrounds; more benches
4/23/2021 2:18 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes It still looks fun for kids.
It seems like the toy in the new playground is less than the old one.
So it might be crowded in the center climbing toy because it seems like it's the only one stair and
slide which kids like most in this new playground.52246 It would be nice if you could add more slides and swings to this new playground.
4/23/2021 2:23 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shade!!!N/a 52246 N/a
4/23/2021 2:24 PM No 3 times or more per year Yes Interactive play, rubber floor, & shade Hard to tell the level of accessibility for children with disabilities.52246 Outdoor library activities downtown
4/23/2021 2:25 PM No 3 times or more per year Yes looks like lots of nice shade and very accessible would like it to be a little more friendly for smaller children, toddler/preschool age 52246 would like it to be a little more friendly for smaller children, toddler/preschool age
4/23/2021 2:25 PM No Never Yes
I really like all of the interactive options. If it's really going to be this colorful that's wonderful.
Children really enjoy vibrant colors. This looks like a wonderful new way to encourage children to
be active.I love the design but it doesn't look very handicap accessible.52240
As a lifetime Iowa City resident I've always enjoyed for both myself and my children that there has
always been a play area in the Ped Mall. This current one went in when my children were toddlers
so it'll be nice to see something new. Making it handicap accessible would be wonderful for all
4/23/2021 2:26 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shade! Will be great on those sunny summer days N/A 52240 N/A
4/23/2021 2:35 PM No 3 times or more per year Yes Nothing Its all segmented into mini areas. Current playground integrates kids by having a single flow.52245 Go back to having a single flow and not mini segregated areas
4/23/2021 2:37 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes It looks fun and safe -52241 Fewer creepy strangers staring at children while they play
4/23/2021 2:38 PM No 2 times or less per year No It offers shaded areas as well as interactive concepts for children.
Kids have enjoyed running back and forth across the play structure that is currently in the Ped
Mall. This would provide limited access to running on a play structure. This structure seems
geared towards older kids as opposed to toddlers and younger children.52241
How about a couple of items that kids can rock back and forth on such as can be found at
Northridge Park in Coralville?
4/23/2021 2:42 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade
Does not seem like the structures offer a ton for smaller toddlers, the current structure has
shorter slides that make it easy for big kids and little kids to play on the same equipment 52240 The fountains being on :-)
4/23/2021 2:42 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I like all the colors and incorporating the library into the play equipment (ie books)
It doesn’t seem to have as many slides, not sure if there is a lot for younger kiddos to do. The
obstacle course is more designed for older kiddos 52240 More raised walkways, my kiddo loves to run across the playground at a higher level.
4/23/2021 2:43 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Variety of play items and shade!
Would love to see monkey bars... the current one has nice, low ones. The colors seem a little
busy, but maybe they’ll all come together into a lovely rainbow.52245 Make sure items appealing to all ages!
4/23/2021 2:45 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
I love the colors, the brightness, the share, appealing to a variety of ages and abilities. It looks
much more interactive and accessible to families. I’ve had a kid fall off the current playground and
get run over by older kids. I like the different play spaces.Nothing 52246
We love the fountain, playground, the library, and then being able to get a meal or snack. It’s a
perfect afternoon with kids.
4/23/2021 2:46 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Safe, fun new idea and colorful Nothing 52240 Bathroom
4/23/2021 2:46 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
It’s great that you’re including shade elements. Absolutely do not cut those! I like that they are
festive looking at or not just gigantic chunks of plastic
I think the books are pretty silly. I guess that custom elements like that are quite expensive, and I
think it is a bit ham fisted. I’d rather there be other items that are more exciting for kids to play on
or climb on top of instead of those vertical books. I think it’s pretty cheesy. We can do better 52245
I think that integrated lighting in the playground would be really great. Gestures like that help
make downtown feel like a place that everybody can hang out, not just if you’re 21 years old and
out to puke. I think the pandemic has taught us the importance of outdoor spaces, and how we
can maximize our assets instead of just assuming that things will only be used in limited hours or
limited seasons. It Doesn’t have to be something custom. Even just running some commercial
string lights from the same posts that you’ll be putting the shade canopy on would make the
whole space feel really welcoming and festive.
4/23/2021 2:46 PM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes shade, things for different ages .52353 .
4/23/2021 2:46 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Nicer playground Nothing 52404 Swings!!
4/23/2021 2:46 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Sunshades Nothing 52240 Sunshades to protect my children from the sun
4/23/2021 2:48 PM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes It has some cover from the sun and has interesting areas kids can play with.None 52317 Nothing other than some sun coverage like this new playground has
4/23/2021 2:48 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Multi-age appropriate areas.I can’t think of anything.52240 Water fountains near the play area.
4/23/2021 2:50 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Nothing All of it.52245
I feel like the current playground is in good usable condition. I do not like the new playground
design. Similar to current design would be better. Something similar to that. More benches and
tables for parents.
4/23/2021 2:51 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
Shade, climbing structures that don’t have large openings for little kids to fall from high places,
the rubberized play surface
I would kind of miss the symmetrical design of the old play structure, but function should be the
priority over design.52245
Have water bottle filling stations near by. Kids drink a lot of water when out playing in the
summer heat.
4/23/2021 2:52 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade sails Aesthetically it’s a little overwhelming.52240 More natural and creative elements in the design.
4/23/2021 2:53 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade
The only “dislike” is that there are other parks in IC that are in much worse shape than the current
Ped mall park. For example, Hunters Run Park is in terrible shape. Whoever designed that slide
clearly hates children as it’s not safe at all.52246 Free parking.
4/23/2021 2:55 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes added shade Inability to run from one end to the other, like on the current structure 52245
Shade on the benches around the playground. Having the fountain on consistently. When I had
younger kids, I would have liked more of an enclosure around the playground. With the sight lines
it was too easy to have one kid run off.
4/23/2021 2:57 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes N/a N/a 52240 Please consider adding artificial climbing boulders.
4/23/2021 2:57 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shade structures will be really nice and it looks like there will be things for all ages of kids Nothing I can think of 52240
It would be nice to have a fence or something around at least one side of it to reduce the risk of
younger kids just running off
4/23/2021 2:58 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
Maybe the rocket? But nothing else. Really. It is too babyish. Not enough for big kids. and NOT
good for groups of daycare and such.
I don't like it AT ALL. The GIANT AMAZING playground downtown is like a castle and one of its
kind. This is boring. Big kids LOVE to play on the current playground and you can bring summer
camps to it. This structure will be a nightmare.52245
Having a tall fireman's pole. Having monkey bars. Having a big playground structure that groups
can play on.
4/23/2021 2:58 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shade!
It’s hard to tell from the pictures, but I’d like to make sure there are plenty of areas accessible and
designed for children 5 years and under.52245 More shaded seating for parents and caregivers
4/23/2021 2:59 PM No Never No
As a former parent to a school-aged child, and once a frequent visitor to the downtown
playground, I'm adding my opinion! My favorite thing is the shade. I also like the inclusion of
objects at ground-level to engage kids who might not be ready or able to clamber up some of the
other structures. I also like the way the really active areas are isolated from the structures that
are nearer the ground. I'm thinking that the perimeter benches are up a little closer to the play
area, too.Will there still be space for the giant chess board?52240 Normalcy.
4/23/2021 3:01 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes NA NA 52240 My 8yo twins suggest adding monkey bars, merry-go-round, and zip line
4/23/2021 3:03 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Soft base ie not wood chips Na 52245 Ample benches for parents and shade options
4/23/2021 3:06 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes It looks like there is something for all ages It doesn’t look like there is a way to run from one end to the other 52245 Seating for observing for all areas
4/23/2021 3:07 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade feature is nice
Only designed to ADA minimum standards. There is no attempt to create an inclusive playground.
This design will leave so many kids on the sidelines with nothing to do but mindless panels. Iowa
City can and should do better.52245
A playground where children who depend on mobility devices are allowed to engage with other
kids independently and not forced to rely on a helper or stay on the ground.
4/23/2021 3:10 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I like the shade and having an area for smaller children to play away from older children.
My children really enjoy having monkey bars. The disconnect of the climbing tower and obstacle
structure. The interconnection of the current playground was nice with multiple access/exit points.52245 Water fountains outside would be nice, lots of seating tables for adults and kids would be great.
4/23/2021 3:14 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes There are some unique elements! Love the color and the covered area when it gets hot.
It looks limiting, areas appear very separate which would make it difficult to watch multiple
children at one time.52245
A type of barrier around the perimeter would be so reassuring, not a full fence/gate, but even a
waist height plexiglass in order to keep the open look. I have 3 children, one has special needs and
is a runner. This makes such an open public space intimidating and definitely limits where we feel
comfortable. I have also seen men sitting around the current park, watching children play (maybe
innocent, maybe not). Unfortunately, this is the times in which we live and making it safer for our
children is always the right choice. Thanks for letting the community voice our opinions!!
4/23/2021 3:17 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The spaceship in the middle
I don't think the small structures on the periphery are very exciting. I don't think kids will think so
either.52246
Is there a way to make the spaceship bigger, rather than having all those small things on the west
side? Also, the news release said the city was releasing "concepts", but there's only one concept.
Thanks for letting the community have input!
4/23/2021 3:18 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I like the colors and shad options.
It seems like it won't be able to accommodate larger groups of kids. This is a big factor as
daycares and summer camps frequently use the downtown playground.55245
I really like the current playground and equipment and structure. Please think about if there will
be enough slides and climbing structures for larger groups of kids.
4/23/2021 3:20 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes inclusive surface
PLEASE - I deplore the use of a ladder to reach the top level of the structure. IC has chosen this
style even after voiced community comment/argument to the contrary at both Mercer and City
Park - thus leaving out many children young/old, parents, caregivers, grandparents, community
members from enjoying the structure because only the nimble can climb the ladders. This
particular area is such a community hotspot, please build a playground all members of the
community can access. Stairs!! North Liberty Penn Meadows did it. Come on IC - you can too.52245
doing more than just the minimum ADA requirements. Its all good/great to be given access to a
structure, but even that becomes a mute point when you cannot access the structure once you
got there. Add stairs to the top level so even more individuals can enjoy the structure and the
view.
4/23/2021 3:22 PM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes
More play areas to allow more small families or groups to space out and allow for more children
to enjoy the play area at the same time.
I like the idea of the shade sails but would there be any issues with them being torn apart by our
frequent strong winds or issues with falling snow and ice debris in the winter?52245
An expanded play area for children. Pre-pandemic we came downtown frequently and larger
open air play areas are much needed to allow for distancing.
4/23/2021 3:28 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The kids will love the rocket ship! It looks so colorful and inviting and I like the shade.One of my kids loves to swing, but there may not be room for that.52240 Plenty of benches to sit and watch the kids.
4/23/2021 3:36 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The colors, the books, the climbing structure in the middle
I am not very impressed with the “obstacle” course, would rather see something connected to the
other climbing structure. Kids love moving from one thing to the other at the higher level.
Although I appreciate the efforts at some shade, I think making room for the trellis is taking space
away from the playground that is already in a pretty tight space, I also think you may have college
students hanging from it.52245
I know this is a lot to ask, but all the snow gets piled on the playground, it. Would be great to be
able to use it on a brisk winter day after a library visit.
4/23/2021 3:38 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The colors are so bright and happy! Love the variety of things to do and play!Nothing!52241 If the water feature next to the playground starts back up too!
4/23/2021 3:42 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
It is a change, some of the previous structures where dangerous, we saw some nasty falls. Also,
there seems to ve a little bit of everything.
We live in Peninsula Neighborhood and have that same #2 structure. Kids use it because there is
nothing else but they do not like it and they get easily stuck up high in several areas.52245 The equipment and floor should be cleaned every once in a while.
4/23/2021 3:46 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Like Plan 1 Do not like the Obstacle play piece. Will have injuries.52245
Like lots of benches. Are bike racks close?
Smaller seating option for one or two, stools?
Place to store items while playing (realize hard to make storage secure)
4/23/2021 3:47 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Coverage Size 52240 Interactive music
4/23/2021 3:50 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Much bigger No swings 52241 Maybe add swings, or splash pad
4/23/2021 3:56 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The design is really cool No swings :(52241 Need swings
4/23/2021 3:58 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shade and bright colors Get it built :)52340 Easier parking
4/23/2021 4:00 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Bright colors
The current playground is spread out nicely, climbing components over a wide range, whereas this
new playground seems to have only a small “fun” space 52246 Spread out the climbing towers, bridges, etc
4/23/2021 4:02 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
Bright colors, theming and shade. Lots of different activities for kids to play so that big groups can
use at the same time.Wish it were larger.52241 nothing
4/23/2021 4:05 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I like the shading features and the various components of the playground.
I strongly dislike the colors. It feels overwhelming as there is always so much going on in that
space. I think it will compete with the architecture of the buildings in the area as well as the
performances occurring on the stage nearby. As a parent, I think it would difficult to locate your
child with all the strong colors. Some more sedate softer colors will be more in line with the
classic pedestrian improvements that have been made.52245 See above. Please reconsider the colors.
4/23/2021 4:07 PM No 3 times or more per year Yes
I love the update to the current playground. I frequently visit the current playground with my
toddler and I love that I can grab a coffee nearby.I haven’t looked closely at the plans.52241 I’d like to have a toddler-friendly portion for multi-age families.
4/23/2021 4:09 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade and climbing None 52317
Making sure parents can easily see kids from the bench. Nursing and baby while a toddler plays,
having sight lines is important.
4/23/2021 4:10 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade Less actual play area.52317 Swings. I don’t think the new playground has anything wrong with it!!
4/23/2021 4:12 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
I love the library in conjunction with the playground. It’s great to go the the library and pick up
some books play at the playground and then head a bite to eat and drink!
I also want to be sure there is enough seating around the playground for parents to watch their
kids but I like what is proposed looks bright, fresh and inviting!52240 I hope they keep the sprinkler that’s always fun too!
4/23/2021 4:13 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
I like the novel sphere and spiral, but they aren't that different from the current play structure.
Why keep spending needlessly? Is the director overbudget?
I think it's comforting to have a familiar place for children. The current play equipment and spongy
cork surface was very recently updated. I like the current earth tone colors that are calming on
children.52240
The City has lower revenues due to Covid lockdowns and low UIowa student population. There
have been way too many aggressive park projects since 2018. Why keep spending needlessly? Is
the director overbudget?
4/23/2021 4:14 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Looks fun, lots of colors, different activities, partly shaded, appears to be an area for younger kids.
Having one small play tower is not ideal. The playground now is great because it has lots of
entrances, slides, things to climb, etc. and everything is spread out. If it's crowded there's still
plenty of room for everyone to have their space. The proposed play tower has fewer slides and
everything is crammed into a small space. It won't accommodate older and younger kids at the
same time. It would be better to have a larger, more spread out play tower similar to the current
one.
I think the book displays will get in the way of kids running around and possibly be a hazard. Also
my kids have never spent much time playing with sensory activities at parks.52245
It's a pretty good spot as-is. Additional seating options near the playground such as picnic tables
would be nice rather than just benches.
4/23/2021 4:15 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Cushioned surface. Multiple age ranges offered. Benches around the park.Needs swings.52245 Add swings.
4/23/2021 4:16 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Variety of ages will enjoy this, and I love the sun shades.It doesn't seem like there are enough spaces to play for larger groups of children.52245
It is usually a busy place to play so having more ramps and play structures for kids to climb on
might help. Something similar to what is currently downtown but updated with more of an age
range.
4/23/2021 4:18 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Big , multiple kids can use . Lots of different aspects for kids To small.. looks like it’s more for looks than accommodation to the publiv 52401 Another playground close by
4/23/2021 4:19 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes It is ok, not terribly exciting
Most playgrounds in all of Iowa City lack things for pre-teen and kids ages 5-12. Everything is for
toddlers. Make more adventurous play available.Dont put in the same old insurance friendly
plaground that is in 99% of America. Be different 52240 Splash pad
4/23/2021 4:25 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shaded concept and different playscape options I would like to see some sort of swinging function 52245 More seating
4/23/2021 4:26 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I really like the separate play space for younger kids, and the shaded seating+play areas none 52245
Make sure the bonded rubber material is PAH- and heavy metal-free. Recycled tire materials are
usually contaminated with these toxic chemicals.
4/23/2021 4:29 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I like that my youngest can't fall from the higher areas in the play tower. I like the shade features.
I don't like the ladder option to get to the top of the play tower (and in turn the spiral slide)
because it is not easy for younger children, as well as others, to use. I don't feel like this design
uses the space well. Currently, the space has many slides and areas to play, allowing a lot of
children to play at once. This design doesn't seem to allow for numerous children at a time. I also
don't see obstacle equipment getting used much at other playgrounds that have similar
equipment. The obstacle equipment also seems catered toward older children. The left side of
the design seems to be for younger children but my young children always gravitate toward the
slides and playground structure rather than those types of items. I would rather see the
playground structure expanded and not have the small items on the left side.52327
We love the playground that is currently there and don't feel it needs an update like this. My
children love all the slides, various sections, and running across all the current bridges.
4/23/2021 4:30 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Looks great!! So bright and colorful... looks like there is space for all ages
The center point(rocket ship?) looks small. The current large structure gets very crowded with
kids and parents with little kids... I’d worry the new piece couldn’t handle many children at once.52240
A new playground would be great... although the construction time is worrying.We live the
pedmall and it was areal drag when it was closed down.
4/23/2021 4:31 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
Obstacle play equipment, since it is most similar to a natural playscape. Only indicating this since
it is a required field. Kids like to chase and climb. More monkey bars and climbers.
I completely dislike this concept. It is unattractive and very contrasting to the other recent
PedMall improvements. The colors are terrible and have no relationship to the surroundings.
Shade is nice in the summer, but not wanted in the winter. How can the shades be
removable/configurable. Any book theme should be eliminated. This is such a forced attempt to
acknowledge the City of Literature. The book play sculpture is a waste and a missed opportunity.
This should be all play fitness and activity. There are plenty of other sculptural experiences in the
rest of the pedmall. Don’t force it on kids who want to run and play.52240
More traditional play equipment like balance beams, monkeybars, bridges, etc. that isn’t gaudy,
cheap, colored plastic. Quality and timeless opportunities for kids to chase, swing and get their
energy out. Actual exposure to quality art and sculpture. More natural playscapes that respond to
the elegant pedmall redesign and landscaping. The city has been good about sending out surveys,
but it often seems like protocol. It seems like this feedback is often disregarded and the agenda
from a previous masterplan is full-filled anyway without regard to current feedback. This form has
an error in the zip code field above and is adding a digit separator.
4/23/2021 4:32 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes It’s more colorful. The awnings are brilliant!Would like more variable heights 52240 Comfy benches
4/23/2021 4:37 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes My son says he likes the idea of the tower- 8 years old. Shade and obstacle course!I dislike that the parks seem to be geared mainly toward really young kids 52240
Definitely challenging terrain and fun playground geared toward younger and older kids. I have
found that even when my son was really young, he found more challenging parks to be the most
interesting!
4/23/2021 4:37 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Looks colorful and I appreciate the shade!!!Can’t tell what ages it is geared toward.52245
My children are age 2 and a baby. Hope this playground will safely accommodate a range of ages
as my kids grow up! Love the downtown play area. One of my favorite spots in Iowa City. Get a
treat to eat, play, and go to the library.
4/23/2021 4:47 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Space, location to restaurants, shopping and festivals I like the shade on the playground- the benches for parents are always placed in direct sunlight.52245 Shade
4/23/2021 5:06 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I can grab coffee, lunch, shop and play!Closed areas from the pictures could be questionable after dark with the night life.52340
A fence might be nice to enclose the kids and not worry about them roaming off when trying to
watch more than one kid.
4/23/2021 5:14 PM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes Different age levels can play, different physical abilities.Na 52241 More space to sit around it.
4/23/2021 5:18 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Colorful!Is there space for younger kiddos?52245 Plenty of seating for adults
4/23/2021 5:34 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The variety of ways to play & Shaded areas
The lack of equipment for mobility disabled children - something like a large swing that could hold
a wheelchair or small group of kids to sway on, at the least, would be nice. I’m no expect in ADA
playground equipment, but I’ve seen quite a few neat configurations for disabled kids around
Indianapolis.52245
Frankly, I would appreciate more resources devoted to maintenance and upkeep staffing around
the area. I was just there with my 4yr old this afternoon, and there was dried puke (assuming
from last night) near the area and the small bench&tables were filthy. The novelty of the new
equipment will wear off quickly if the area doesn’t feel safe and somewhat clean/kempt.
4/23/2021 5:41 PM No 3 times or more per year Yes the slides
Ladders. Im 13 and need assistance to walk. I cannot climb ladders but I love slides and these
slides look cool. If there are no stairs, I cant use the playground. Its no fun to watch everyone
else having fun.52245
Being able to use the slides. Having other things to do other than climbing stuff.: see saw, merry
go round.
4/23/2021 5:45 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes More toddler friendly :)
Enclosed slide. Not sure how easily parents can get inside with small children or if someone gets
hurt inside how easy is it for the children to get hep. Pictures are not easy to see this.52246
More natural features, like large trees, boulders, logs, etc. similar to Kiwanis and Riverfront
crossing. Would also be nice to see more water features for kids to play in downtown. Thanks for
doing this for our community!
4/23/2021 5:52 PM No 2 times or less per year No Looks like it offers more shade Looks fun, it would be terrible if more people brought kids downtown.52245 Turning it into an adult playground (free outdoor gym)
4/23/2021 5:53 PM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes Bright, fun colors.Nothing 52241
Please consider kids with life threatening food allegeries when making an area handicapped
accessible. Our littles can’t be near peanuts. Having signs keeping food off the playground and
frequent surface cleanings would allow our kids to play with the other kids and use the space.
4/23/2021 5:56 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade structure, options for varied ages
There are not adequate opportunities for individuals with diverse abilities (especially physical
disabilities). The sensory panels are not enough (and it is unclear from the drawings if these are
even wheelchair accessible). I would also prefer that the design be something that will not appear
out of date in a few years (I.e., the rocket ship shaped structures).52245
Please further consider the principles of inclusive playground design....
https://www.playcore.com/programs/me2
4/23/2021 6:22 PM No 2 times or less per year No
I like the shade structures included in the design scheme. I also like the connection some of the
play structures have with library. (i.e. book climbing structure)
I don't really understand the color choices made, they seem random and I don't see how they
connect to the overall design theme. Also what is the design theme, its a bit unclear just by simply
looking at the renderings. I wish there was a larger main structure rather then just one "rocket
ship" structure to climb on. I personally always enjoyed how large the old play structure was
growing up.52246 less crazy of saturated color scheme! Also a larger central play structure!!!!!!
4/23/2021 6:44 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes More “baby” friendly spaces and shaded canopy N/a 52245 Maybe a gate type enclosure that surrounds all or most of the playground.
4/23/2021 6:51 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade is an excellent addition
It’s kind of hard to see from the renderings, but this playground has always been stressful for me
as a parent because it’s extra hard to keep track of my child due to the flow patterns and the
sheer number of entrance/exit paths and equipment pieces. This doesn’t look like an
improvement on that. It also looks like there are just a lot fewer equipment pieces for the kids
and more “fluff” pretty things to look at that the kids aren’t interacting with.52241
Some kind of enclosure around most of the playground so I can feel like I can relax while my child
plays. Also does the current concept incorporate any accessible equipment for children with
disabilities? The library gets visited by large groups of kids from the arc every summer and it
would be super if they could go outside and use the playground and I’m sure many other kids
would benefit. The arc has built an accessible playground on site do they have some experience
with this.
4/23/2021 6:55 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Multiple areas and bright colors!Worry a bit about it’s ability to host lots of children like the old one.52245 A safe space for kids to run around where they are easily visible.
4/23/2021 6:57 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shade
I don’t care for the playground with the red hoops and balls for climbing. This exists at a park in
another town we go to and kids don’t seem to like playing on it. Its rarely used.52240 Having the library open.
4/23/2021 7:01 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shade and colors
I dislike almost all of it. Here is a place where a cross section of the community and a wide variety
of ages play (college students included!). This playground design is incredibly shortsighted and
blah. There should be steps for older people. There should be a playground that bring parents
together to play WITH their kids. The books randomly around the design will hinder pathways of
running.52245
An aside, your questions about visiting is lacking some options and are written with bias. Pre
COVID I was at the playground once a WEEK. This playground is a weekly part of lives.
4/23/2021 7:04 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Separate play areas/structures for smaller and larger kids
Lack of things to climb up (ropes, poles, monkey bars, etc) or under
Running and playing tag is a typical game here. Having a small barrier to somewhat separate the
smaller kids would be beneficial to keep them from being run down.52246
Enlarge the play space and have a running space around the perimeter with obstacles to be
climbed under/over/up & on that support & enhance the tag experience.
Also lights
4/23/2021 7:05 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shade There doesn’t seem to be as many climbing structures as the current playground.52317 I like the playground the way it is. Just add shade coverings to the existing playground.
4/23/2021 7:09 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shade area. The slide and climbing structures.
The sensory panels: too much sensory play, not enough climbing/running/playing. Get a seesaw.
Install swings. In my experience, kids usually don’t play much with these semi-didactic sensory
panels. Monkey bars for the win - our kids already get enough sensory input. They need to run,
play and use their imagination.52240
See above. Also: water features. More climbing opportunities. Less “sensory panels.” Find
something accessible for kids with disabilities that is actual fun. - wheelchair accessible swing?
Wheelchair-accessible ramp?
4/23/2021 7:21 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The colors are beautiful- it looks like art.
I feel like the current one has so many options- my kids would adventure from one side to the
next and underneath. I love the current one.52245 Anything is great - thank you for continuing to improve the downtown
4/23/2021 7:24 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
The shade and the seating around the edge. The rope thing looks good for older kids. I love the
current flooring of the playground.Colors are ugly.52240 I wish there were no dogs allowed in the ped mall.
4/23/2021 7:27 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The obstacle playground equipment is most appealing to my kids My kids are less interested in the slide and say they’d like a rope ladder instead.52245 My kids would like climbers, merry go rounds, and ninja warrior type obstacles
4/23/2021 7:31 PM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes Different attractions to spread kids out, shade, different levels of difficulty
Too many kids will congregate in the spaceship bc it’s the largest thing on the playground. Kids are
likely to get hurt up there and parents will have difficulty reaching them. There should be more
items for toddlers. Maybe a splash pad?52241 Splash pad, small playground for toddlers (I have a 1 and 5 year old)
4/23/2021 7:32 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Looks fun.Nothing.52246 This new playground.
4/23/2021 7:33 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Things for all ages, and SHADE Nothing 52317 Hopefully the water fountains turn back on this summer?
4/23/2021 7:43 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The colored panels that will provide some protection from sun.Na 52241 Love that area
4/23/2021 7:44 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shade
That it’s not very spread out. The one currently is perfect for our 3 year old and our 5 and 7 year
old. Such a hot spot I think there needs to be more larger equipment and not only a ladder to get
to top. I appreciate the other things that are not equipment but the equipment is so used
especially Friday nights.52245
Please see above. I really hope you take into consideration the comments from other moms and
caregivers in the area. I’m excited for the new structure but the length and options of the current
seem to disappear with this option.
4/23/2021 7:46 PM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes Bright colors, lots of different things to do, some shade It doesn't appear to remove many barriers for those with disabilities or mobility challenges 52317 Some disability friendly items....large wheelchair swing, ramps to reach certain elements
4/23/2021 7:51 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shade is nice
I would like to see it be more sculptural and open ended instead of typical play equipment. Some
of the ideas that Shannon Gassmen was suggesting on your Facebook post are what I was imaging.52246 A more open play area that isn’t just equipment. Similar to some of the European ideas.
4/23/2021 7:54 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The various areas Not sure it has as many slides 52245 Not sure
4/23/2021 8:01 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shaded
It comes after two years of ped mall construction followed by a pandemic year (or two?) when
nobody was playing at the ped mall. I’m leery of another summer without a playground on the
ped mall.52246 Having two or three summers of normality before the disruption of more construction.
4/23/2021 8:05 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade Can’t tell if it will still have soft flooring. I like that the current one has the soft floor.52240 Accessibility for all kids
4/23/2021 8:06 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The colors.
This design will make it difficult for toddlers and pre-school age children to play. It is not spread
out enough. This seems like the accessibility is the credibly limited for so many.52245 Something that can spin, easier monkey bars, ropes, and imagination station, swings.
4/23/2021 8:09 PM No 2 times or less per year No Colorful It doesn't look wheelchair friendly 52245 More playground experiences that are safe for toddlers (I have a two year old).
4/23/2021 8:16 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes It’s new always need updates.
It’s ladders👎👎👎👎👎👎👎👎👎👎👎👎 I can’t use anything!!! No swing everything is climbing which is ok if you had
steps.52245 You need steps to make this inclusive.
4/23/2021 8:27 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade Needs seating for parents in playground area 52356 Adaptive equipment
4/23/2021 8:28 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shades, and the obstacle part I can’t think of anything 52322 Deff
4/23/2021 8:32 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shades! Also the area for smaller ones to play.
It appears that the large structure is a couple of flat platforms in which kids could just congregate
and really would get clogged up quite quickly. It appears that large structure lacks a logical flow. If
budget or space is an issue we can lose the book statues as they don’t function for much of
anything. There are cooler ways to call out that we are right next to the library... perhaps literary
references on the structure itself? Printed on the shades? Also the colors are GARISH! They will
quickly fade and look old/run down. Those colors definitely do not have staying power. The ped
mall landscaping, benches, storefronts themselves, heck even the Graduate Hotel are all filled
with wonderful color, let’s not muck it up with a garishly colored playground which will clash with
everything we already have!52245
Plenty of benches/seating opportunities for caregivers! It’s a FAVORITE central place for us to
meet, grab a meal, and socialize while the kids play- we even take turns watching the kids so we
can shop at the stores.
4/23/2021 8:45 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The rocket ship shape is cool Way too colorful? Not sure about how flashy it is.52245 A bit of a fence around it, very short, to ensure littles don’t run off
4/23/2021 8:47 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shade N/a 52245 Add more benches to sit and watch the kids
4/23/2021 8:48 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes All the shade
I do not like the new climbing structures. The current one is great lots to run through and have
imaginary play. The climbing structures in the picture I very bland and boring. Almost cold and
uninviting.52240 Water bottle refill station and more shade.
4/23/2021 8:50 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The colors and Diversity of ages represented by east and moderate level play equipment.I cannot tell for sure but want to make sure it is adult accessible.52240 Making sure it is safe for small, early walkers as well as older children.
4/23/2021 8:50 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I think it's great that shade is included.
I'm concerned that children, especially children who are old enough to climb and slide, will
essentially only play on the main "space ship" structure. there seems to be a lot of wasted space
that could fulfill more active area for kids to run/climb/crawl etc. The western 1/3 seems not to
be nearly as useful. Furthermore, if children 3+ are all in the central area and the space ship is
some sort of cage like structure, it might be difficult for parents to access and retrieve their
children.52241
I think a much larger and more extensive structure would be a better use of the space. Individual
items on the ground (spheres), piles of "books" etc, I don't think will capture a child's imagination
for very long and they will be drawn to the structure area.
4/23/2021 8:52 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Plenty to do
Looks too modernly brilliant and “plastic-y”. Would love to see a playground done more the old
fashioned way.52247 Plenty of seating for parents, picnic tables,
4/23/2021 9:01 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade!Not enough shade! No seriously we need shade there. Also climbing structures not super exciting.52245 SHADE.
4/23/2021 9:06 PM Yes Never Yes It looks cool. Activities for big and little children.No swings.60543 Misters for hot days the kids can run through. A dog park.
4/23/2021 9:08 PM Yes 3 times or more per year No Colorful, interactive, shade
One thing that is nerve wracking about the current playground for caretakers is strangers walking
by or kids wandering off and no fencing.52240 Possible divider between playground and pedestrian traffic
4/23/2021 9:16 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Colorful!It seems fear towards early childhood age children.52245
My kids shared that they like the high levels that are currently there now. They would like bigger
slides, keep the money bars, bridge, under areas (for hide and seek with friends), monkey bars
and firefighter pole. Thanks for listening to their requests.
4/23/2021 9:16 PM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes Colorful and inviting Some but could have more ADA and wheelchair friendly features 52317 An ADA accessible playground
4/23/2021 9:46 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Everything! Always happy to see new playgrounds around town!Nothing. Looks great!52245
Water fountain -- needs to work all the time. It is a life saver on hot summer days, particularly
now during the pandemic.
4/23/2021 9:56 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade!!The colors—the current structure is less glaring.52240 More big slides
4/23/2021 10:00 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade Na 52240 Free parking in decks
4/23/2021 10:04 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade
From what I can see in the design, the two main dislikes are 1) the red hoops in area #2 - there is a
structure like this in my neighborhood and I never see kids on that part - it’s awkward and hard to
use. 2) all the little book structures on the ground seem like a waste of space, unclear what is the
purpose unless I’m missing something in the design 52245 More slides for all age kids, more stairs
4/23/2021 10:12 PM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes Yes for improved shade, maybe also canopy over the main play structure so more like a tent.
Needs to be more accessible, not just ladder. Needs more slides. I love bridges across structures
too, they love to be up tall on current structure 52251 Benches/picnic tables to rest
4/23/2021 10:19 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shade
The obstacle play equipment. It's difficult for little kids and toddlers to play on it without parents
help- The Peninsula neighborhood has this same structure and virtually no small kids ever can play
on it. Also, I'd love to see more slides.52240 More shaded table seating would be nice
4/23/2021 10:21 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade
It doesn’t seem to offer much more than the present playground. Why not leave well alone and
spend the money elsewhere? Though I get it if this is about ADA accessibility.52240 More adventure. Playgrounds are too tame and prescriptive.
4/23/2021 10:22 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Color is good.
It is all theme, no play. What is a toddler going to do with
A big tower. How do you keep kids from congregating around the one or two fun things to do. Kids
do not care about such a literary design. Where are all of the swings or built in bouncy toys? We
would not go back often with
these plans. Kids come out n different ages and are not all interested in climbing to nowhere.52240 Scrap every thing but the colors and the locations.
4/23/2021 10:36 PM No 3 times or more per year No Very colorful and alot of different items for learning, yet have fun I like it 52241 Hope the college students don't ruin it
4/23/2021 10:46 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Great size, soft surface, surrounding seating N/A 52240 N/A
4/23/2021 10:50 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I like the shade pieces over the sides.
I don’t like that it’s a lot of separate items, rather than one large thing to roam. It seems like
there’s too much color, just for the sake of color.52240
To leave the existing one intact, so as to have continued access to a playground rather than
disrupt a summer waiting for something to go in.
4/23/2021 10:51 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade!Might be harder to see children from all sides 52241 Shade, easy to watch the kids, places to sit
4/23/2021 10:51 PM No 3 times or more per year No Very colorful and interesting Nothing 52245 larger space
4/23/2021 10:55 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
It is colorful. and the shade looks like a big plus. not sure the the climbing thing to the east is all
about but it look interesting.
My impression is that compared to the old one there are very few things to climb or go up and
down on. Only two slides? There will be lines of kids when the place is busy.The big books literary
display. looks pretty trite and frankly boring. May be that suppose to be for the little ones. The old
one had a lot of moving around possible. Lots of smaller sections for kids to hang out or move
through multiple times. The whole thing was integrated so there was a sense of travel and a big
space.52245
Young parents and even Grandparents like myself are often asked to join in by their children and
little one often need hands on help. Is this design usable by adults? It should be.
4/23/2021 11:24 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shade and sensory additions!
It would be nice to make sure that children of all abilities can play here and have easy access to
play areas.52241 Swings! Or maybe even a rock wall climbing structure!
4/23/2021 11:27 PM Yes 2 times or less per year No It looks very fun.
I don’t see a fence. Please, I beg you, consider a fence. The last time my partner and I took our
kids to the playground, our (then) 2 year old ended up inside the library despite both of us actively
watching our children at play. We were very lucky that a helpful stranger saw him running
gleefully toward the children’s section of the library and stayed with him until we found him.52245 A fence.
4/23/2021 11:53 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes It is extremely colorful and will be so inviting and exciting to children.There's nothing to dislike.52240
Actually, the downtown playground experience is always a positive one for all the years I've been
going there w/ children.
4/24/2021 12:01 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Equipment appropriate for different age groups, middle tower structure, shade!No dislikes - love the look of the equipment and love the book theme. This looks amazing!!52245 N/a
4/24/2021 12:18 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Love the literature theme
Loved the playground concept drawing that had included the pencils. I wish the pencils could
have been kept just made to be less climbable from the outside than the concept drawings
showed.52240
Making the literature theme more noticeable. Would love to see the book sculptures with books
written by Iowa City children's authors.
4/24/2021 12:28 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Nothing
I have to say it is a bit overwhelming. I think given the small surrounding space, this will really limit
the area for free running/play. The colors are too bright too.52245
I would just keep it cleaner and better maintained. I really don’t see a reason for changing the
entire structure. One idea would be to have another area downtown to have a playground rather
than creating such a busy environment in a single location.
4/24/2021 12:32 AM No 3 times or more per year Yes Very cool looking design
Seems like not a lot of things to climb on. Kids will bottle neck in certain areas. Also, doesn't look
very ADA friendly. Maybe a few pieces comply, but we can definitely do better to be welcoming
to ALL kids and families.52245
Climbing structures for all ages. I love the built in shade of this new design, but the actual
playground seems to be lacking.
4/24/2021 12:57 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I like the shade aspect, separate play areas. Overall nice design. Still has slides Would like some natural features- can help kids be more inventive 52245 Adding natural features
4/24/2021 12:59 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade Too colorful. Would prefer a more natural looking playground and a smaller one for younger kids 52241 Shade and easy way to watch the kids
4/24/2021 1:25 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade + places to be pretend Nothing in particular 52240 More tunnels, houses, bridges, places to explore
4/24/2021 2:37 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade, safety, the variety of ages that can enjoy the space Looks great!52245 Can’t think of anything
4/24/2021 5:52 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes In another context I'd like a ton, but this is a terrible context
It's the absolute worst time to propose replacing a perfectly functional playground when there are
mass cries in the streets to spend money on more important things.52245
Seeing an actual representation of our town's makeup, instead of the predominantly white people
that can afford the time and money to go there.
4/24/2021 6:07 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Looks safe and sturdy. Nice sun cover.No 52440 Cool down area on hot days
4/24/2021 6:16 AM No 3 times or more per year Yes The shade and the flooring .52241 Some water fountain for drinking
4/24/2021 6:50 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I like that it is colorful It is lacking the fun fort feel of the old!! My kids love the current one. Please don't make it babyish.52245 A playground for elementary age children. An edible garden, water fountain, more plants.
4/24/2021 7:10 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shade area Nothing 52358 Drinking fountain
4/24/2021 7:13 AM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes The colors and unique design, structures I have not seen before The unique design, structures I have not seen before 52245 Nothing
4/24/2021 7:15 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Colorful, shade from sun
Honestly, this seems like a major downgrade. Appears to be lots of structure but not much for kids
to actually do except a few slides and some stuff to climb on. My 5 y/o would not play on the
rope/disc structure. Doesn't look ADA friendly 52317 Room to run, climb, small-kid friendly, shade, more benches
4/24/2021 7:17 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade features So flashy and artificial looking. I strongly prefer a more toned down natural playground aesthetic.52240 Shade. Otherwise, I do think the current playground is already fabulous.
4/24/2021 7:18 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shade.Nothing 52245
Shade and benches. I love that the concept seems to have equipment for various ages as I have a
3 year old and a 6 year old.
4/24/2021 7:25 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Variety of activities, shade, vibrant colors Just a smidge of nostalgia for the current structure (one big continuous structure was fun).52246
These concepts are a step in the right direction. More inclusive activities at ground level, activities
for a variety of ages.
4/24/2021 7:27 AM No 3 times or more per year Yes
It’s updated, fresh, and has something for all ages. My daughter is not school aged yet and while
she enjoys the current playground, the new concept looks like there are more things designed for
younger children.
There are currently a couple picnic tables near the playground. I can’t tell in these pictures if those
are gone or not. If so, I think it’d be good to try and keep a couple close to the playground. While
there are others not too far away in the ped mall, having some close to the playground is so nice
for lunch, snacks, picnic, etc.52246
It’s always good to have enough garbage cans nearby. A drinking fountain/water bottle station
would also be super convenient. If it’d be possible to do a hand sanitizer stand, that’d be great too.
4/24/2021 7:29 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The sun shades.
It doesn’t look like there is a slide for younger children. One of the things I don’t like about the
current play structure is that when it gets busy the older kids are on the same structure as the
younger kids and often end up knocking them over.52340
A big kid slide rocket and one designed for smaller kids to encourage the different ages to play
apart. It seem like you kind of have that idea but the things under the younger kids side seem
“boring” for anyone but under 2 age. 3-5 year olds would like a pretend car to play in or smaller
slides.
4/24/2021 7:34 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Sensory play and exploration N/A 52246 Accessible bathrooms
4/24/2021 7:34 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The added shade.The enclosures 52240 We like the current playground, especially the monkey bars.
4/24/2021 7:35 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Love everything. I hope the colorful shaded structures are lit up at night Nothing- please keep the same soft ground as before 52241 More equipment
4/24/2021 7:41 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shade and benches closer to the play space.The book displays are cool, but not really functional for kids.52245 Shade and benches that aren’t separated from the play space!
4/24/2021 7:43 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Colorful, love the shade areas as there isn’t much there currently. Like the library theme additions.Can’t think of anything 52333 Have the water features working again?
4/24/2021 7:44 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade!Very bright colors 52245 Hand sanitizer stations
4/24/2021 7:45 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes It includes fun for all ages Maybe a sandbox, swingset for babies 52240 Atmosphere
4/24/2021 7:46 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Book details and shade
Adding a million colors doesn’t make it more fun for kids to play on - just more garish to look at.
They’ll have the same amount of fun regardless of what colors are incorporated. The view from
the hotels and ballrooms would be concerning to me.52246
Adding some shade for parents and caregivers. Consistently in Iowa City I find the zip line is the
most popular piece of equipment. New playgrounds in IC have put in these rotating merry-go-
round alternatives and I’ve yet to meet a kid who liked them because they’re so slow and difficult
to establish any momentum. The design of these looks fun in theory but at Napoleon and City
Park I’ve found disappointed kids.
4/24/2021 8:01 AM No 2 times or less per year No Bright colors Not able to see child 52246 Fencing
4/24/2021 8:06 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade, it get so hot on the plastic in the summer
Small play space, this will get packed with kids. Spread out the design like it is now. I don’t like the
plastic fiddle things and knobs, those don’t get used. Needs monkey bars.52338 Shade, space where kids aren’t crowded and you can keep track of where you kid is at.
4/24/2021 8:07 AM No 2 times or less per year Yes Love the color, excitement and wonder it fosters. Makes Iowa City feel welcoming to children.Na 52245 Na
4/24/2021 8:19 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shade element That the tower is the only playground element the kids will really play on and it will be packed.52250 Shaded sitting for parents.
4/24/2021 8:23 AM Yes 3 times or more per year No It's different from other playgrounds in the area.I think it's too bright and flashy..something more organic and sculptural would ne nice.52245 Other things in the area for kids.
4/24/2021 11:29 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade!Nothing 52246 Having shaded areas.
4/24/2021 11:37 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes the boundless sphere and the ropes climber thing Seems prescriptive and plastic. Needs more open play, like the logs at the City Park playground.52245 More open play structures.
4/24/2021 12:13 PM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes Colors, unique equipment, and the variety of equipment There's nothing I dislike 52776 This equipment and more convenient short term parking options
4/24/2021 12:34 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shades, sensory display None 52240
Having better surveillance or regulations during the weekend as sometimes there’s is people
drunk and yelling profanities (daytime)
4/24/2021 1:10 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Looks like there is more for younger kids.
Too colorful and obnoxious. Please use more neutral colors or maybe a pop of one color/color
shade.
It also seems like the structures block sight lines and might be easy to lose a kid/not see them.52240 Adding equipment safe for young toddlers (mine are 1 and 2.5)
4/24/2021 1:25 PM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes Colorful. Lots of options.Didn't see anything for special needs children.52242 Something for special needs children.
4/24/2021 1:33 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade and link to the library
The current structure can hold lots of kids of many different ages. This design looks really limited
in the number who can actually use it.52246
Doing the construction in the winter rather than taking up another summer season like when
redoing the ped mall for two summers.
4/24/2021 1:56 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Surface Not inclusive for children and adults of all abilities.52245 More thought put into inclusion of those normally left out of typical play.
4/24/2021 1:59 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Soft ground, proximity to food and fountain.Smokers too close.52317 Inclusivity.
4/24/2021 2:04 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade. Seems safer than the open towers of the old playground.It seems disjointed. No monkey bars, nothing to challenge kids physically.52245
Having a play set large enough for older and younger kids to explore together without fear of the
younger ones accidentally getting pushed off of the higher elements.
4/24/2021 2:07 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade Nothing 52245 No smoking on the ped mall
4/24/2021 2:10 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Rubber mulch and shade are wonderful.
First and foremost, my daughter has cerebral palsey, and this playground looks decidedly
accessibility unfriendly. The tower does not appear to have ramp access
It's strangely lacking in theme. It would be so easy to create a book theme throughout the
structure. Instead, books are stuck up in the middle of the ground (4), with no apparent purposes
except decoration, although (9) is a book climbing feature. The entire playground should be built
around such a theme. And items like (4) should have play purposes with it. For (2), why not make
it a spider web with a Hobbit or Charlotte's Web book in front? For (1), why not make it a grain
silo for Little Red Hen? It is so easy to think of ways to make these with inclusive, accessible,
popular, timeless literary ties.52246 See last remark.
4/24/2021 2:16 PM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes It looks colorful......the curly slide is awesome.....
....but the playground that’s there is not that old and there’s nothing wrong with it. There are
other playgrounds that could use upgrading before this one gets a new one again 52240 If it was sanitized on a daily basis.
4/24/2021 2:35 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Nothing Dislike it strongly 52245 Leave it the way it is
4/24/2021 2:38 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The added shade.
Concept seems to value style over substance. Book displays are cute but look like they would
impede flow. There seem to only be a couple of actual play options so when downtown is busy it’s
not going to work well.52245
More functional structures for actual play. There also is accessibility issues which need to be more
thoroughly considered moving forward.
4/24/2021 2:42 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Benches without bars There's not enough space to climb and slide all the kids will gravitate towards that one spot 52240 More benches without bars
4/24/2021 3:05 PM No 2 times or less per year Yes I like the books and slides N/a 52245 I wish there was a smaller toddler jungle gym for my littles.
4/24/2021 3:39 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
Plenty of shade. Seating for parents (although this appears to be existing and not added with this
design)
Not a fan of the color choices tbh. Looks very stylized but this may be at the cost of play options.
Looks like there is minimal play options (books to climb through left, slide center, climbing activity
right). How accessible is this for children and families with disabilities?52245
Accessibility. More physical play options guarantee jids are going to bottleneck that center slide -
think function over style. The color is not great. Is there a bubbler/drinking fountain close by?
4/24/2021 3:51 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
My kids say they like everything about it and that it will make it much easier to play "going into
outer space."N/A 52240 N/A
4/24/2021 6:20 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes lots of area to run around, maneuver strollers and wheelchairs
I'm sorry, but the colors are hideous. Would strongly prefer something more naturalistic.
While wheelchairs can move around here, what is there to do, really, for kids in wheelchairs? This
seems pretty lousy for kids in wheelchairs. No wheelchair accessible "sway" glider? No "merry go
round" type component with harness? no ability to enter any of the major components in a
wheelchair? Just shows a lack of creativity. Why always the bare minimum for our kids with
disabilities?52245 Making it a place where ALL kids can play and have fun.
4/24/2021 6:44 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
My daughter says “It looks colorful, it looks fun to play on. The rocket ship looks cool.” I like the
shade, but especially for playing in the summer.Nothing 52245 My kids suggest a slide off the library roof ; )
4/24/2021 6:57 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Nothing
Needs to be way more handicap accessible- for adults w disabilities to play with their kids and for
kids w disabilities to fully access the structure 52241 Get rid of COVID?!?
4/24/2021 7:49 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes It’s colorful
I do t like the shade structure. Those flimsy triangles are a poor idea for shade. It gets really hot
and sunny and we parents always complain that there is not enough shade relief.52333
Kids like to run and there seem to be lots of obstacles to keep kids from running. Kids will be
running outside of the playground area into other people.
4/24/2021 8:02 PM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes Nice colorful. Like bonded rubber for accessibility purposes.
I would like to see a few more wheelchair accessible spots throughout besides just the literacy
wall. Perhaps a few music spots with drums or xylophone.52246 Can't think of anything
4/24/2021 8:06 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
I do not like this new concept
Adding shade areas is helpful, could it be trees?
If these are the colors, they are garish. For a city of art and literature, using plastic is tacky and
unimaginative.
It is much too busy - children do not need to be overwhelmed by choices.
What are the items that allow those with less able bodies to play and enjoy, and more than a
board with moving puzzle pieces?52241
Hire a child playscape artist to design and build an imaginative wonderland, full of child
opportunity and risk to use their bodies in their abilities. Less close-ended activity boards and
more open-ended suggestions for children to own their play choices.
INCLUSIVE of all body abilities
If the playground is for school-aged, 5-12 years old, then it needs to include age-appropriate risky
play.
4/24/2021 8:10 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Bright colors. More open play space. More shade OK as prsented 52246 Hand sanitizer stations
4/24/2021 8:16 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes More spread out Needs more accessibility 52358 More shaded areas where the seating closest to it is
4/24/2021 8:19 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The rope climbing. Similar to the Peninsula park one.
It needs more slides, bridges, the type of structures that are higher up like #1 (currently a very
small space to share). The majority of the activities are at ground level in this design. Too much
shade.52245 It is pretty good now.
4/24/2021 8:53 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
1) There are Plenty of opportunities for my squirrelly kids to climb and interact with other kids.
2) There is a wide range of ages that can play; including a preschooler-safe area of the playground.
1)The sensory board area is something I have never seen kids interact with and are often broken
on a playground. The space may be better suited for a different item.
2) there is no opportunity for a child in a wheelchair to play and interact with the other kids. We
have seen multiple kids in wheelchairs around the library, but never on the equipment.52240 Allowing space or a redesign of the slide structure to have a wheelchair accessible area.
4/24/2021 9:19 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Climb structure
I don’t dislike it but sensory panels don’t get used much.. we playground hop the area (did three
today, 2 IC and 1 North Liberty) to justify this observation 52317
It’s so cold, honestly we can’t use it enough because it’s in the shadow of the library so except for
the summer it’s really uncomfortable.
4/24/2021 10:11 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade and updating the structure
Too many colors, does not appear to have multiple options for elementary aged kids to climb or
run on.52240 Additional benches around playground
4/24/2021 10:14 PM No 2 times or less per year No Variety of activities.
I could not tell if handicap accessible?
Are the surfaces the type of materials that do not get hot, similar to those at College Hill Park
once?52245
I am wondering what will become of the current structure.
Repurpose? Elsewhere?
4/24/2021 10:37 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Climbing/obstacle structure is great.
The colors are awful, too garish, and the overall spaceship/gerkin/bullet/tampon shape isn't really
pleasing or in fitting with the site.52240 Keep it simple, kids love climbing, slides, etc, and the overall look should fit with the site.
4/24/2021 11:01 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The addition of shade
My kids (6 and 9) can play on the current structure (with multiple slides, ramps, climbing options
up to one connected structure) for an hour - easy. This new concept seems as if there would be
limited playability. My kids would be bored. Those rope climbing disc areas are the worst and
don’t allow for safe playing with other kids. They tend to be an independent type of thing. And I
don’t think we need to add the play board style toys near the ground. I think all the kids would
pack onto the rocket ship pieces and it would be packed because no would want to play on the
other stuff.52241
I like the current structure with ramps/bridges to multiple connected platforms with slides,
climbing ladders, etc. I would just refresh the same concept and not add some of this weird new
stuff.
4/24/2021 11:06 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shade is lovely!
Too many little pieces and not one big playground structure. This playground is used by everyone!
And by groups! It should have many access points and be tall so you can run under it and on it. It
should have steps and a ramp and ladders and a fireman pole and monkey bars and slides. Little
kids can play up, big kids cannot often play down (I have 20 years experience with
childcare/camp/school settings)52245
Shade. I love what is currently there, truly a beautiful place. I have loved it with toddlers, school
kids, teens, and college students.
4/24/2021 11:55 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
I like the shade canopy and the literary theme. I also appreciate that the play structures are a little
separated. When my on kids were little enough to play, they would often get knocked down my
older kids running on the play structure.
I can't tell very well from the drawings but it seems as if this will not accomodate as many children
on the play structure. The fireman's pole and climbing up to the tall platform on the old structure
are a big hit with kids. The new one seems much more geared to younger kids.52240 Drinking fountain by the playground would be fantastic.
4/25/2021 12:29 AM Yes 3 times or more per year No Looks safer I like all the colors!52240 Shade over the playground is great!
4/25/2021 1:37 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Not very much
It seems designed for very young children. Most of the play space is on the ground. I don't think
this design will last anywhere near as long as the current structure has.52245 Model it after the current design
4/25/2021 1:56 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The colors and lighting.
I’m concerned about accessibility here, both for myself as a wheelchair-user and my daughter
who has muscular dystrophy. This is 2021, ableism is out, and it’s profitable for you to make
inclusivity a priority. Accessible terrain, accessible swings, shallow steps, merry-go-rounds, etc.
We have a large disabled community that would be happy to offer more suggestions.52240 If the environment was inclusive and accessible.
4/25/2021 2:55 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes That there is some shade worked in, not sure how effective it will be, but it is needed.
There isn't a lot for kids to play on. This park is heavily used, everytime we have been there, and
these plans do not have enough to support all of the kids of all ages that use it! The one in place
does this quite well, it should be modeled after that design.52249
We love using the playground and library as a destination for our family, or a place for the kids to
play while we listen to music. Please continue to have this park!
4/25/2021 6:16 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade. And apparent range of ages addressed.Nothing. Looks good.52240 This new design.
4/25/2021 7:03 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The play structure and shade There is not enough to make this more inclusive for kids with disabilities 52240 Increased inclusivity.
4/25/2021 7:13 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Colorful. Provides some shade.
I worry about capacity—does the space as designed have a maximum suggested capacity and
does that align with observed past usage? The main tower will attract the most attention, and
again I question capacity. The existing structure is spread out the length of the playground,
offering many points of entrance. The proposed is a single structure and if it is full, there isn’t
much else for older kids to do. An overcrowded tower seems like it will be a safety issue, and also
drive away children who are more shy.52245
I appreciate the increase of nearby benches in the past few years. Having a lot of seating for
grownups is necessary, as long as they provide a line of sight to the playground. Thank you.
4/25/2021 7:17 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Colors!! The shade looks good too and seems like a good variety of activities Nothing that I can trll 52240
How is this for young kids? My kids are older now, but it was a struggle when they were young to
play on the down town playground
4/25/2021 7:56 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shade Seems to be more suited for kids 5+. Would prefer to see something kids 2+ could play in too.52240 An area for small children
4/25/2021 8:18 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade sails over play structures NA 52240 shaded benches for caregivers
4/25/2021 8:42 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I don't really like much at all. I guess having a couple things for babies to climb on is nice.
I don't like it at all - there's not enough room for several kids to play together on any one
structure. Kids chasing each other across the bridges, etc. is a lot of what makes the current one
fun. They also like getting below the current structure and playing hide and seek. There's often a
lot of children, and many of them are older. This design offers nothing much for the older kids to
do and not enough play space.52240
Honestly, the current playground is great and just needed a water fountain and a shaded area for
babies to climb.
4/25/2021 8:51 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes It would be new
Not enough fun areas to play in and climb around on less actual playground equipment than now.
Now you can run from one side to another and can get down multiple ways and go a different
way every time. Just very fun.52240 A better design, more slides more ways to get up and down different kinds of slides
4/25/2021 9:48 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes DONT LIKE THIS PLAN! The only nice thing is it's colorful.LOVE the current one... the new one needs to be more like the old one.52246 It's great the way it it already
4/25/2021 9:56 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes That there are shaded areas to play and that there are numerous age levels that could safely play.
I can't tell how high and how open the slide is but little ones like to go right to edges of high places
(which is what I dislike about the current playground)52240
Lots of seating near it so that mom/dad/caregiver doesn't have to cross pedmall traffic to sit and
children don't have to cross pedmall traffic to get to mom/ dad/caregiver.
4/25/2021 10:47 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
Lack of stairs on running surfaces which possess a safety hazard, accessibility of the new
structure, larger climbing structure Fewer slides 52246 Even more space for the playground :)
4/25/2021 10:54 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes None Too compact, no flow of movement. Not handicap accessible or entertaining 52338 Large spread out with lots of slides and climbing opportunities. Not one compact tower
4/25/2021 10:56 AM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes Safety, gated and safe for all ages!Doesn't seem all age appropriate.52240 Bigger, gated and safe for ALL ages.
4/25/2021 11:18 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shade component
Too garish, busy and looks Disney park like. I would expect something more artistically attractive
in downtown Iowa City and unique. Not sure this would provide anything for disabled children to
play on.52317
I am fine with the one that is there. Pretty simple and my kids live running across the bridge and
looking out at the Ped Mall. Providing shade would be an improvement though.
4/25/2021 11:21 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes It's not really for my family, sorry.
The colors are circus like, the equipment looks far too small for anyone above the age of six. There
isn't a lot to do and it's not very spread out. I love the idea of having a playground for smaller
children but the playground that is there now is great for all ages and kids can spread out and run
and play tag and hide and go seek. None of which can be done on this one. I'm sorry but this is
just a very poor design for large groups of children which is what I hope will again happen
downtown soon after covid.52245
Climbing walls larger structures for older kids interactive things for smaller kids you can't combine
all of these into just one small area like you're trying to do. The playground we have now works
really really well and a large number of children and families can enjoy it at one time. I'm sorry
but this design is just very poorly executed and needs a lot of changes to be anywhere nearly as
good as what we currently have.
4/25/2021 11:36 AM No 3 times or more per year No The shade structures and the benches.Too many clashing colors.52240 Please do not put bars or other “hostile” design elements on the benches.
4/25/2021 11:40 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Much more things for all ages I think it needs to be more Accessible for children who have disabilities of all kind.52317 Benches, picnic tables
4/25/2021 11:43 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Any parts our kid can climb on!The more slides the better 52240
If the area could be gated. Not sure if that was described and I just missed it or not. *Is the current
structure unsafe? Just curious why a new one is going up.
4/25/2021 11:51 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I like the different areas that spread out across the space. Shade is great.
I have a lot of dislikes. The closed nature of the big slides (rocket shaped), kids can get up there
but can’t really spread out. I can see littles getting up there and not sliding down. Overall
accessibility is problematic, what can kids with different mobility needs be able to do? Did we
seek input from families that have kiddos with special needs?52245
Water experience, multiple options for different aged youth from 2-12. Accessibility and open
line of sight for supervision.
4/25/2021 11:56 AM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes climbing and activities that challenge children
needs a circular plan to keep the kids in motion and bringing them to different items. Lack of living
materials 52246
use of trees or or vines to create shade rather than artificial material which will likely break or
wear down and are still there in the winter when we want the sun.
4/25/2021 12:10 PM Yes 3 times or more per year No Lots of different play opportunities Seems complicated and less user friendly 52246 Ability for kids to both share and play on their own
4/25/2021 12:16 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes colorful and inviting It needs swings for children of all abilities.52245
It should be fenced in. My autistic 8-year-old is a runner who has no fear. The only places in town
in which she can safely play are the playground at The Arc on Muscatine Avenue and the
playground in the center of the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. Parents of a special needs
children really want a fenced-in playground in Iowa City!
4/25/2021 12:21 PM No 3 times or more per year Yes
I do like the focus on the visual and shape oriented nature of this plan. I think the colored glass
panels and the climbing sphere are beautiful.
I think the colors are too loud. I think a more natural color scheme (excluding the colored glass
panels) would suit the downtown area well and still be inviting to children. They're doesn't seem
to be a lot of play equipment for disabled children or older children. I think also considering what
the theme is here, right now it has kind of a spaceship vibe? I don't know if that really fits in with
the rest of down town. I think including little town/book/farm/art related themes would suit this
space well 52245
Iowa City is a quirky town, I think making many opportunities for nature, random kindness and art
to be a part of the space would continue to improve the downtown area. This can be done in a
modern and upscale way too. I'm thinking pinboards just for art. Little libraries, little pantries.
Picture opportunities/unique plants or botanical features.
4/25/2021 12:27 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Sun shades The flow of the design 52245
Something similar to the World of Wonder playground in Athens, GA. It has a nice flow to keep
kids moving around.
4/25/2021 12:30 PM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes Intentional structural elements that provide shade, items that engage children of multiple ages.N/A 52245 This concept looks great!
4/25/2021 12:35 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Variety. Shade panels
There doesn't appear to be much room for running around without possibly interfering with
pedestrias.
.52240 I would like to see one of those "spider web" rope climbing units
4/25/2021 12:44 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade!!!The rocket shaped structure— it will get too busy and not accessible to all.52246 More shade by the playground
4/25/2021 12:46 PM No 2 times or less per year Yes Colorful. Offers shade Looks fine 52317
Food vendors, splash pad and activities for kids to enjoy. Like Saturdays have a booth that does
activities like mentos and coke. This will make the playground fun, interactive and allow kids to
elanr and be wowed.
4/25/2021 1:01 PM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes Shade seems looked good idea, "sensory" stations too.The design looks very crowded with objects -- no room just to run. Please open it up!52245
Until the pandemic is under better control, I won't be likely to go downtown for much of anything -
- but a more-open playground would certainly relieve some of those concerns for disease.
4/25/2021 1:01 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shade covers
There doesn't seem to be any wheel chair accessibility and there are a lot of blind spots that will
make it difficult to see children 52240
Ensure wheel chair accessibility around structures and if possible use translucent materials to
allow greater visibility of children
4/25/2021 1:10 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Not much. Maybe the coverings to block the sun.Need more room for kids to play games (hide &seek).52240 N/a
4/25/2021 1:15 PM No Never Yes It will be something to go visit with kids This should not be open after sundown on fridays and weekends 52241 Kid friendly stores nearby
4/25/2021 1:38 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shade, the elements that don't require climbing up high
The ladder access to the tower structure makes it difficult and dangerous for younger children,
differently abled, and older people to get up. Adults should have easy access to all levels in order
to help children quickly. Having only one access point will cause conflict between children as well.
The ground level interactive elements are well intentioned, but these things usually get dirty,
faded, and stop working fairly quickly. Do you have a plan to maintain or replace these when that
happens?
The literary display doesn't seem to serve much of a purpose, and it blocks carers' views of small
children. Imagine you are trying to keep track of 3 kids at this playground- you NEED clear
sightlines!52241
Please take a look at the Penn Meadows tower structure! It is the perfect combination of exciting
and challenging as well as accessible to the majority of people.
I would also REALLY like to see a spinning toy that is accessible to all kids of any ability. (Again, see
the merry go round at Penn Meadows.)
Have you considered a unique water feature? What about a permanent water table and/or pump
with water channels for water to flow through? A water element accessible to kids in wheel chairs
would be excellent!
4/25/2021 1:54 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade structure
There will be too many kids on the central tower. Not enough to climb on. Too many obstructions
like the book display 52246 Plenty of climbing, sliding, running options
4/25/2021 2:13 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes THE SHADE!nothing 52245 COFFEE CART
4/25/2021 2:15 PM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes I enjoy the variety, I just don’t understand what is wrong with the current one.Why do we need a new playground? Is there something wrong with the current one?52240 It has always been great.
4/25/2021 2:16 PM No Never No
I think it looks really fun. When my children were small, they enjoyed playing on the playground
by the library. I think this will be very enticing to children. I love that it has some shade.
Are you expanding it as well? It looks bigger than the current one. Just want to be sure there is
enough space so that children don't get injured.52245
As a parent, just making sure there are enough benches. Maybe cubby holes to store diaper bags
and such if parents are playing on the playground with their children?
4/25/2021 2:20 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade
The play structures are way too compact. Why have something like the rocket ship and not
something open and inviting like the structure that is there now? This encourages kids to play on
top of one another (not ideal for the pandemic) and discourages companion play. What a
disappointment. Did someone sit and watch how children and families play in the space? It’s one
of the biggest age ranges of all playgrounds in the city. The recent playground remodels have
been disappointing. There is benefit in simplicity and openness.52245 More open play structures and shade.
4/25/2021 2:20 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The book display is a perfect idea for that playground. The whole concept looks very unique.I don't see anything.52246
I hope this will not have any big drops to the ground like the current one does, and I hope that this
will be appropriate for all ages.
4/25/2021 2:27 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Looks fun - 10 year old N/A - 10 year old 52240 Add an ice cream shoppe - - 10 year old
4/25/2021 2:27 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
lots of different activities. colorful. shade. totally new and different from any other playground in
IC.
i would like to see more slides and an area where kids (especially toddlers) can climb up on and
actually run across (like the playground one that is already there). This one doesn't look like kids
can really run around on anything that is up high. The slide playground design is enclosed maybe
too much, there is no where else to go. The other web like play area is too big and only for really
big kids. Littles will not be able to use this.52240
I wish the slide playground design was bigger and more expansive and had another bridge to take
you to another play area. So kids can spread out more and run around on it. To me, it's too
enclosed with not much else to do except go down a slide. Also, maybe a sand box. AND
SWINGS!!!!! where are the swings? OR teeter totters? Or merry go rounds? OR a grocery store
stand? Also, small MOD seats for kids would be fun too, they could hang out and sit on to read
their books.
4/25/2021 2:31 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade covers.
All the pieces are so separate from one another. What was so genius about the old one was how
the central structure stretched across the whole space and the kids could run from one side to the
other, and that was how they played. With such separate structures, I feel like it divides up the
play into separate tasks more.52240 Those slides are for big kids. A slide option for the small kids would be nice.
4/25/2021 2:34 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Good for variety of ages Nothing 52240 A water feature would be awesome.
4/25/2021 2:38 PM No 3 times or more per year Yes Shade sails. Separate areas for younger kid. Athletic flooring (not sure what it’s called)The largest structure appears to be a great place for congestion.52245
Kids seem to enjoy the current structure being able to go from one end to the other. Adding
swings would be nice.
4/25/2021 3:02 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The overhead covers & the obstacle course. Do like there are separate areas for kids, but....
But, seems to have many separate areas. Not a lot of slides, climbing ladders I could see. The
sensory areas are okay, but even when my kiddo was little she didn't really care about them.52240 Really like the overhead covers- how would they work in snow/ winter?
4/25/2021 3:25 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Colorful, has some interesting climbing features
Not sure that the tower has enough ways up, wish there was an enclosed way to climb from the
tower over to the over to the other climbing features, some sort of monkey/hanging bars like the
other one had. Hard to tell what exactly is under the shaded area.52241
Have those few places to "hide" that incorporate other ways to keep them moving. Rocks to
climb that also have a cave inside. Our kids LOVE the logs to get across in NL. Or some vented
tunnels going around/through the shaded features. Ithink I also provided ideas in the previous
answer
4/25/2021 3:33 PM Yes Never No I’ve never been downtown It looks interactive 52722 Not sure, I’ve never been there
4/25/2021 3:43 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The book theme
I don’t like the garish colors. Its not nice to look at as an adult and may be overstimulating for
children.52246
It would be great if it had a tie in to nature. Like a massive tree house. My daughter also loves
monkey bars.
4/25/2021 4:00 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Inclusive.No 52240 Inclusiveness
4/25/2021 4:02 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Climbing structure
This does not look like it would accommodate lots of children running around playing together.
This looks like more individual activity centers. The idea when kids come to a playground is to
interact with other children.52245 A larger interconnected structure more similar to the previous structure with bridges and slides
4/25/2021 4:05 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Tall slides I prefer the current one as it's more diverse and friendly for younger children 52240 Less people
4/25/2021 4:09 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
Currently nothing. Although there is just one design handout avaliable, it seems, there needs to be
more information provided -- what are the planners looking at that the public isn't seeing?
Colors. There is no need for colors. The City is going backwards thinking this is attractive. Subtle
earth-tones are both pleasing to the eye, calming to the mind, and inviting to kids' brains to
imagine and play with their bodies and minds being stimulated by how they play, not the colors of
the eqmt.52240
It seems that the City needs to read up on what experts on playground eqmt recommend for
fostering and nurturing children's (and adults) mental health. This
4/25/2021 4:24 PM Yes Never No
Nothing as with the complete waste of money spent on playground and other cementing over of
green fields.
Eye sore, misplaced and more "how great thou are" from Parks and Recreation Dept. and
commision. Why don't you put lights in like a committee member suggested after you ruined
James McPherson Park and wanted their child to be able to shoot baskets at night.?52245 Get rid of it.
4/25/2021 4:25 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Provides shaded areas and takes up more of the designated space.Hard to tell but would want it to be inclusive for kids of of various abilities.52240 Having a gate around the play area so college kids can’t just walk through
4/25/2021 4:25 PM No Never No Somethings Is it wheelchair accessible? Can children of all abilities play it in?52240 More accessible
4/25/2021 4:58 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Accessible Not enough climbing equipment 52246 Anything for climbing
4/25/2021 5:21 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Colorful, things to climb on.
The kids love to play tag on the current structure. This new concept doesn’t lend itself to the
game. Also it’s not accessible for smaller children and lacks slides. It seems like this was designed
based on what adults think children want instead of how they actually play.52246
Fewer ladders so the smaller kids have less risk of falling through it. But honestly the playground
is awesome like it is. Our kids were disappointed when it was shut down for an entire summer
previously and doing that again is going to be a huge disappointment and make us less likely to go
downtown.
4/25/2021 5:24 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The colors It does not appear to be inclusive 52245 More functional for kids with disabilities
4/25/2021 5:34 PM No 2 times or less per year Yes The shady parts
The color scheme. Please choose something more neutral or Hawkeye themed.
It is not designed for older kids. I used to come here as a kid and love playing on the slides, the
different steps, and monkey bars. This new concept looks boring, for young children, and not right
for our community.52240
I love the play set now and did as a child. It’s always packed down there because of the fun
equipment.
4/25/2021 5:42 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The canopy covering Like it all and the colorfulness 52245
Wish there was a fence or something especially with the homeless. There are times the
playground smells like uhrine.
4/25/2021 5:56 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Nothing. Terrible Everything 52245
Playground represents an incredibly outdated approach to play and is just not what we need in
this space. Please consider the tenants of adventure playgrounds.
4/25/2021 6:08 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Looks colorful. Looks larger than the old one. Looks more accessible to disabled children.I do not see many sitting areas for parents to sit and watch their children.52245 Next to it....disabled accessible bathrooms and drinking fountains.
4/25/2021 6:16 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes It is colorful and provides some shade, which are both shortfalls of the current playground.
Immediately it appears that the center structure is much too small. A centerpiece that is
competitive or becomes easily overcrowded does not seem like a good idea to me. Also, the
current playground has levels for children to play above and below, which diminishes the
inconvenience of attending parents. With this playground, any caretakers would be taking-up
playspace.52240
So long as profanity is spray-painted on any surface in the downtown area, my family will not
come downtown. It does seem that we parents often talk about how a bit more shade would be
nice - but really there are a lot of great things about the existing playground.
4/25/2021 6:16 PM Yes 3 times or more per year No That the playground is kept there in functional manner!Cant tell until actual use occurs 52240
Surveillance in case loud and violent people disturb the area, as has happened while getting there
when fountain was on
4/25/2021 6:19 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
Nothing. It looks like a carnival gone bad. Horrible design, children and how they play are not even
being thought of.
EVERYTHING. WHere is the sense of adventure with this design. It is all show but no substance.
This new design has children bunched together in the center weird slide thing. NOPE NOT A GOOD
IDEA. Whoever the archetect was must have never played on a playground...pathetic.52241
Think how children think. Think exploration and adventure. Think space so they have room to play
within the structure. You know, how it is right now with bridges and platforms, multi entrances
and spread out. Where kids can play together and not be on top of each other.
4/25/2021 6:24 PM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes It's colorful.
It's not possible for me to see if this concept includes equipment that children who are in
wheelchairs will be able to use. It's very important that every child is able to play on at least part
of the equipment.52240 I need a sitting area to be able to sit and watch my grandchildren play on the equipment.
4/25/2021 6:29 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
I don't like any part of it. There is nothing wrong with the current one and it's a waste of money to
build this new one when other things can use the funding.
I dislike that it's a waste of taxpayer money when the current one is just fine. Maybe give more
artists a chance to put out their work around the ped mall 52245
Bring back the benches where artists could actually paint them. The variety of art and the
opportunity for artists to get their name out was one of my favorite facets of the downtown until
they were removed.
4/25/2021 6:45 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The bright colors and sun shades Too abstract. Can we please just have a regular playground 52245 I like the idea of multiple structures.
4/25/2021 6:55 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The large and long footprint for tag and creative play with several children.
The shrunk and smaller size of the play tower. The separate climbing and obstacle sections from
the play tower limits interactive and creative play with several children.52240
Incorporate several of the proposed separate feature into a similiar large size play tower for
interactive play with several children. I would prefer the current playground remains than being
replaced and the new playground is a huge waste of money at a loss of function and enjoyment.
4/25/2021 7:05 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The colors.
There isn't any large & long area off of the ground for kids to run along. Kind of a large playground
staple to not have.52240 Enough seating for people around the play area.
4/25/2021 7:07 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I don’t like it at all Looks too small, not enough room for all the kids who like to play there.52246 I think the current playground is great and does not need an update.
4/25/2021 7:12 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I like that there are things for different-age children to play on.
I wish it were more inclusive for children with special needs or disabled kids. There isn't much for
them in its current state.52246
I think my statement above says it best. Iowa City can and should include a more inclusive play
structure so all kiddos can play!
4/25/2021 7:21 PM No 2 times or less per year Yes
Not a parent, but a teacher and someone who takes care of friends’ children. I love the current
playground because of the way all the elements are connected. It allows children to move and
explore the length of the structure in a variety of different ways. It also allows access for adults to
assist younger children.
I don’t think this design has as much to offer as the current playground. It doesn’t seem like it
would accommodate as many children at one time, has fewer movement and climbing options,
and the flow isn’t as good. Also, it doesn’t appear to be accessible.52240
For a major investment in our downtown, this playground should be design with children of all
ages and abilities in mind. The center tower is not accessible to adults with young children or to
children with mobility issues. The colors are over stimulating, will fade quickly in the sun, and will
detract from the overall aesthetic of the ped mall. Please consider something more inviting with
natural colors and textures that would provide a range of sensory input in more subtle forms.
4/25/2021 7:22 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shade created by the canopies and the climbing structure
The main section looks like it loses accessibility (no ramps) and it appears more compact and
disconnected. It looks smaller than the current playground structure 52245
Ensure that the playground is large enough for many children to use and accessible to children
with differing ability and ages.
4/25/2021 7:42 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
The shade is my favorite feature! I also like the fact that the tall play structure isn’t open so that a
child could fall off the higher level.The middle tall play structure doesn’t seem big enough 52241 Lots of shade and seating
4/25/2021 7:51 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I don’t like it
The new plan offers offers one structure so all the children will be concentrated in one area. And
the rest is just open space. I don’t like the super bright colors.52245
I would like to see a play structure similar to the existing structure with some additions to
accommodate children with disabilities. The existing structure allows multiple areas for kids to
play and climb.
4/25/2021 7:57 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes It is colorful and offers shade.Is it large enough?52245 Make sure it has playground equipment for all ages & for children with disabilities.
4/25/2021 7:58 PM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes I honestly don’t like anything about this new playground
The colors are too bright/unnatural, and there doesn’t seem to be as much for kids to do as the
current play structure, especially kids with disabilities.52241
A play structure that was more inclusive for kids of all ages and abilities, and one that perhaps
wasn’t so ridiculously bright colored.
4/25/2021 8:04 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shade components and options for children of various ages/physical stages of development No objections 52240 Access to a water bottle fill station
4/25/2021 8:35 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Colorful. Shade. Variety for ages.Need seating for parents and grandparents 52240 Handwriting station
4/25/2021 8:39 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
Lots of color
Lots of variations for play
A definite upgrade!Nothing 53240 The New design
4/25/2021 8:41 PM No 3 times or more per year Yes Shade, various options for children of different ages N/A 52245 Swings
4/25/2021 8:59 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shade Is it big enough?52245 Make it the best as possible
4/25/2021 9:11 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Bright colors and sun shades, inclusive.Only one climbing structure 52245 More tables by playground
4/25/2021 9:24 PM No Never No Nothing. Why change a fun structure upon which kids excitedly play?“Inclusive” apparently means “if everyone can’t climb on or in it, then remove it so no one can”.52245
We enjoy the Friday night live music on the Ped Mall and (until Covid last year) frequently ate
supper outside at Bread Garden while watching the kids of various ages play on and explore the
playground structure. The proposed structure offers far less physical activity and challenges for
the children. What part of the word “playground “ do you not understand? You are contributing to
a generation or more of sloths.
4/25/2021 9:41 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I don’t like it at all Need more to run and jump on 52245 Leave the current one, it’s fine.
4/25/2021 9:57 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I like the vibrant colors and the shade the canopies provide as well as the slide structure.Didn't see much to dislike. Excited about a new playground!52240
Different play structures that different age groups can enjoy (one for toddlers/preschool and
elementary age). Plenty of benches and seating for parents. Love to have more plants/trees in this
area too.
4/25/2021 10:06 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade and obstacle structure Nothing 52245
The shade looks great. This design is also nice in that it’s not all one connected structure. Might
make it easier to keep big kids from trampling little kids. That seems to happen a lot on the
current structure.
4/25/2021 10:11 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
Shady spots! The PedMall can be a pretty warm place to wait for kids during the summer, and
there are several spots where adults can stand nearby and wait for the kiddos to finish playing.
It doesn't look like it has a lot of options for kids with mobility aids. Providing for kids of all
abilities should be a high priority.52240
My kids really like the downtown playground. The current structure can make it hard to get to a
child who needs help, though, so I appreciate that the new proposal is a little more broken up.
And the shade is a wonderful addition.
4/25/2021 10:31 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I don’t like the new playground concept The colors. The lack of play equipment.52245 Something similar to the old Shimek wooden playground
4/25/2021 10:54 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I like the colorful aspects of the new playground
I do not like that the new concept does not allow for running and playing the way the current
playground allows for that. Part of the fun of the downtown structure is the ability to play tag,
hide and seek, etc. I, honestly, think it’s great just the way it is!52245 I like it just as it is.
4/25/2021 11:35 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade
There are no monkey bars or long “runs”. There doesn’t seem to be enough slides. The old
design had so many slides. And a bridge. The design from 35 years ago had an AMAZING bridge.52245 I wish there were swings.
4/26/2021 12:04 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
Nothing. The existing playground is fun and good as it is. Take whatever money is raised for this
and spend it improving parks that are in disadvantaged neighborhoods. Or ADD a new park where
there ISN'T one already in a disadvantaged community.
Would remove good playground already there, environmental impact of new materials and waste
of the existing materials - all when not necessary.52404
Nothing. It's already great. If there are any safety concerns then design the REPAIR of the existing
playground instesd of replace. (In an indirect way my experience would be improved if I heard
about more efforts to achieve equal access to playgrounds and parks for all communities.)
4/26/2021 1:07 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
I do not like anything about it. It looks crowded, there are no places for kids to just play, and
some of items look like they are just wasting space,everything, see above 52245
I enjoy the plantings that change with the seasons. Good photo ops as well as just relaxing. I like
places for toddlers to play safely as well as places to just quietly and watch or read.
4/26/2021 1:11 AM No 2 times or less per year No Bright colors, shaded areas.
Much less play space for climbing, looks like less play activities. Space for those with disabilities is
important but the new design doesn't seem to offer much for those without.52246
Current playground seemed to offer a lot of variety for most children. Add some activities for
disabled to existing area if feasible, but keep old design.
4/26/2021 6:22 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Nothing at all. It is awful. Younger children cannot use large parts of it.
It’s greased for older kids. It’s not as inclusive for all ages as the current structure. Please don’t
mess up a perfectly wonderful playground.52246 Leaving the existing inclusive site in place!
4/26/2021 6:31 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade
Do not like new concept. Much of the new design looks geared toward smaller children. I also
think the design is too bright. Less space for multiple children to play on equipment together. My
children love the current design of the playground.52246
Make sure older school age children can use the equipment. Seems like most of the new park
designs are designed for younger children.
4/26/2021 6:52 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
I LOVE the colors! And thank the goddess someone thought about creating shade. Looks like a nice
range of activities for a fairly small space Are there features that will be accessible to disabled children and their caregivers?52245 The end of COVID :-)
4/26/2021 7:00 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
We like the climbing rings, because unlike traditional "monkey bars" the rings allow kids with a
little less upper body strength (younger, less developed) to experience the thrill of being 'up high'
and accomplishing the goal of getting from A to B. My 3 and 7 year old love these rings at other
playgrounds. And they're also able to go in the rings together, as a team.
The colors are overstimulating, and the dome-like structures look like cages. You cannot see your
children and they can't see you very well either. One of the joys of a playground is to share the
experience with your child (seeing their proud wave, catching their eye as they smile). The domes
are obstructive and too much like a cage. They look like a habitat for a set of rainforest Macaws,
and not a place for children to play. And they may be difficult to clean properly, too.52245 Various kid-friendly vendor pop ups would be cool.
4/26/2021 7:05 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Not much, shade and book-theme
It is not very ADA accessible and honestly tacky, it is overwhelming to look at. Can we do more to
incorporate natural elements and be more inclusive?52240 More natural elements more inclusive.
4/26/2021 7:31 AM No 3 times or more per year No
I don’t like it at all! Doesn’t seem to have interesting play areas. Aside from the too brightly
colored equipment I don’t see much to entice interactive play
It’s too brightly colored, I feel like it should blend in with the downtown area and surroundings
rather than stand out. It doesn’t seem to have equipment that inspires kids to run and jump and
chase each other in fun. Initial thought when I saw the new design was it looks boring except for
the overly brightly colored equipment.52241
Leave play equipment as it is or if it needs to be replaced because it needs to much repair, replace
it with something similar.
4/26/2021 7:32 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes It looks very inclusive.The colors and it would be nice to have a fence to keep younger kids contained.52240 Something to keep kids more contained so younger kids don’t sneak off.
4/26/2021 7:35 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
Nothing, there isn’t a great area for kids to run around and play. With obesity on the rise this
should be a priority.It’s horrible, where’s the imagination? Leave the current one and call it a day.52240
More climbing equipment to keep kids active and in shape. A lot are saying this design is great for
handicapped children. Why can’t you have things for both?
4/26/2021 7:37 AM No 2 times or less per year No something new to look at
colors are so LOUD and will fade and look sad in 5-10 years. seems like a playground for very small
children, more like a daycare center yard than a playground 52240
Getting Rid of it. There are plenty of not closed in areas where parks already are that allow for
various types of play on actual equipment and in green space. this has always been a weird
feature to me and I honestly don't get it. Why would I want my children to play on stuff drunk
college kids were on last night? Where they can run off into giant crowds of passerby? or slip into
building by barely leaving the park?
4/26/2021 8:09 AM No 3 times or more per year No The climbing books in different sizes and shapes
The main play structure is an odd shape and wouldn't match the buildings or rest of the
playground.52246 Swings
4/26/2021 8:11 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes the jungle gym (2) looks like it will be well received.There seems to be an overall reduction in the amount of physical activity children can engage in.52240
There is something called a Jungle Jumparoo that I've found is exceedingly popular with active
children. Perhaps adding a few of these or design something similar but larger.
4/26/2021 8:16 AM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes I like the obstacle course equipment and the incorporation of literacy.
It seems much smaller than the current equipment. Only two slides will create a backup during
festivals. Also, the shade structure needs to extend over the benches for parents and caregivers.52358 An extended shade structure to cover the benches and a larger central climbing structure.
4/26/2021 8:18 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
Thoughtful evaluation of the present condition of the playground is a good idea to provide access
to all ability levels.
The colors in the new design create sensory overload for me and imagine those with autism would
be disturbed by such bold color contrasts in an already busy playscape.52240
I'm a grandma whose grandchildren visit from out of state. in planning for their lodging location
during their time in Iowa City the playground is an important component. That playground has
been torn up too many times in recent years and I'll be happy for a final design to stay in place for
more that a couple of years. Just keep the playground intact.
4/26/2021 8:32 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Lots of coverings for shade!
There are no ramps, not a lot of accessibility for young kids. Unlike prior structure this is very
fragmented and disconnected. Would be difficult for multiple children to run in the main structure
at once.52245
Creek side park is great with so many ramps to run on and lots of ways for kids to run around
together. Modeling on this but larger in the pedmall would be ideal. Also having multiple sections
(e.g., one end for older kids and one end for younger kids) is really helpful.
4/26/2021 8:48 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Science theme, colorful, more interactive aspects Na 52246 Little cubbies or shelves for kids to put bags down etc. Hand sanitizer station.
4/26/2021 8:50 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I love the book theme and think the tall feature in the middle will be very popular.
Maybe not be so literal with the primary colors, making it bright and colorful but with colors
adjacent to primary colors?52240
Continue to have a lots of seating available all around and a soft, squishy surface for kids to play
on.
4/26/2021 9:04 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Some shade, unique structures Lack of smaller slides and swings, but not sure I'd take away anything to accommodate this.52241
Enough space/places for families to sit. A sort of home base to be able to eat, send kids to
playground, park strollers, etc.
4/26/2021 9:09 AM No 3 times or more per year No Some accessibility features
Too close to the library building. It would be uncomfortable to walk between playground and
library, especially if you are in a chair, use a walker, or have a stroller.
Also, is there a place to get drinking water?52240
Have designated seating right by playground that is comfortable for parents. Have adequate
walkway space around playground.
4/26/2021 9:37 AM No Never No Adding shade -- very good idea!
Is it really necessary to spend money on this, especially right now? What's wrong with the existing
structure? It seems fine to me. There are so many other needs in our community that seem much
more urgent than this.52245
I'm surprised that the new design will emphasize group play between kids from different
households. Given the reality of the pandemic, which I believe will be ongoing into the future, it
seems like it would be wise to choose a design where separate households can play separately.
Why not add some shade/rain shelter for the benches where adults sit, too?
4/26/2021 9:49 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade provided Concerned it would not be as usable to younger children (1-3 years old)52240 Play area for smaller kids
4/26/2021 9:54 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
I like that it has ground-based interactive items—not everything requires a climb. I like the
concept of including shade (though these awnings are ugly.)
I am told that this design does not adequately accommodate children with disabilities and would
like to see a more accessible design. (I recognize this is ADA compliant, but only meets basic
requirements. I would like Iowa City to set an example for broad inclusivity. Go beyond the basics.
I think the colors are garish and out of step with the rest of the downtown and Ped Mall aesthetic.52245
I would like to see elements that are accessible to children of varying physical abilities and varying
ages (size and strength.) This is a great community gathering spot and we want to support the
broadest possible use and participation.
4/26/2021 9:57 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes It looks like you'll continue using the soft ground material.It seems there is less structure to actually play on. More just random things sitting on the ground.52361 Fence in the play area to prevent kids from running off
4/26/2021 10:11 AM Yes 2 times or less per year No Very vibrant colors.
Looks very busy and the rings/bridge thing reminds me of the controversy of the Park Road
Bridge, which could be dangerous.52245 Include hand sanitizing stations.
4/26/2021 10:24 AM No Never Yes Spaces for children to play separately if they are or become uncomfortable in group play Is the slide structure to confining and claustrophobic?52240 Children love to run across bridges.
4/26/2021 10:24 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
Some what but, I think they need more than just one area for a slide and pod area. It will cause
crowding and frustration amongst the children fighting over an area..it just seems really small.
Maybe consider adding more smaller areas around them for climbing. I do like that there is areas
for the impaired children that can’t access the climbing. They too need to have the sensory
options available
I just dislike the small amount of different climbing areas and also areas for hiding underneath like
the current installation has.52240
I love the rubber area. It’s good for absorbing falls and its just more forgiving on the joints of
parents and children alike.
4/26/2021 10:45 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Not much. It has a slide?Color is ugly. Also it doesn't look like the equipment can handle very many children at a given time.52245 Two big playground sets. One for 2 to 5 year olds and another for 5 to 12...like Longfellow.
4/26/2021 11:10 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade! And it looks inclusive, with good sight lines.The tower. Not accessible, fall risks.52240 A fence!!! And more cleaning so it’s always ready for kids to play.
4/26/2021 11:38 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The sun shades.Doesn't look like enough play space for multiple children.52240 Integrating picnic tables for outdoor dining with some sort of shade, especially right now.
4/26/2021 11:47 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes compact I would like more for toddlers, separate from the older kids.52240 Love downtown!
4/26/2021 12:04 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shade structure The amount of plastic.52245 Natural playscapes.
4/26/2021 12:14 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shading.Palette. Too jewel toned and intense.52241
More natural toned palette. High contrast can be achieved with less brightness. Also fading of
colorful materials is always disappointing to see.
4/26/2021 12:15 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
The shade! In general, playgrounds in Iowa City are inadequately shaded, so it's great to see this
feature. I hope the feature will be prioritized in this playground (and others).
A lot. For a location at the heart of downtown - and a location that could be a big part of a
visitor's experience to downtown Iowa City - this playground seems almost completely unexciting
(especially the Book Play Structure; the playground is next to the library and in the City of
Literature, but the theme doesn't need to be carried into every piece of plastic we install on city
property). The city has an opportunity to design a space that is interesting, interactive, and
unique from other playgrounds. Instead, we have a design that looks like it was copy and pasted
from a Google Image search for "Conventional Plastic Playground." I am sure that replacing and
building a playground is expensive; for this reason (and environmental ones!), I wonder why the
current playground needs to be replaced at all. If the playground does have structural or
functional reasons for replacement, could it be replaced with something special? Something
different? Something that, for example, recycles trees that had to be taken down during the
derecho and be reappropriated as a natural play structure?52240 More shade! Better lighting in the evening.
4/26/2021 12:26 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The benches around the playground. So parents can sit and watch the kids playing.
The layout of the new one might cause congestion because there's only main climbing toy in the
playground.52246
The idea of changing to a new toy is good but the flow of this design might make it congestion. It's
because in this model there is only one main climbing toy in the playground so the kids will stay
and play mostly in that toy.
I bring my daughter to the playground every weeks after go to the library. I always sit on the
bench and see the kids running "along" the playground because they have so many toys that the
can do.
I feel cheerful to know that the city have a plan to change the toys in the playground. However
from my perspective as a parent I think it would be better if this design could have changed to
make it easier for kids to run along and avoiding the congestion.
Thank you so much.
4/26/2021 12:34 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Difficult to determine from the pictures.Colorful.52246
Have somewhat separate areas for ages 2 to 5 and another for older kids (i.e., a more challenging
area). Currently, it is too easy for a younger kid to get to an area that doesn't have adequate
barriers to keep them from falling from a height. These less "protected" areas are also the areas
where older kids want to play.
4/26/2021 1:01 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shading Most everything else. There is so little playscape area.52240 Leave the playscape as it is, just add shading
4/26/2021 1:04 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I like that it appears ADA and inclusive
not enough play to space ratio- too many objects drunk college kids would abuse. The playground
as is is more age inclusive- kids from walking- tweens can play. this looks like it is only for really
small children.52203
perhaps a storage area (small cubbies, or shelves to place items and more recycling and trash
options
4/26/2021 1:06 PM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes multimodel interactive pieces for sensory experiences; climbing; places to move; shade!!!
Not clear children with mobility challenges can actively interact- they can passively interact with
standing boards but that doesn't seem like enough movement (a swing for wheelchairs?). sensory
area with different textures would help kids with sensory needs. kids with attention difficulties
may be overwhelmed by very bright multiple colors.52245
When my children were young it was very difficult to keep my eyes on my eloping autistic child
there- ease tracking of your kids somehow. Now they are large teens so we never use the play
area.
4/26/2021 1:10 PM No Never No
It seems to have different play areas; the shade covers since trees/natural shade is sadly lacking
from the downtown.
It's garish. Must it contain *every* color in the crayon box?? I may not have school-aged children,
but I do visit the ped mall/eat outside at the Bread Garden and other venues and this is a bit much
visually. Children and parents deserve beautifully designed spaces as much as anyone else. The
playground provides the stimulation--it doesn't have to be visually over stimulating as well. It does
a disservice to the library and other structures in the area and plays down to its primary audience.52245
The space seems appealing, but as I mentioned above, it is not visually coherent with its
surroundings.
4/26/2021 1:11 PM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes Colors The old one is just fine, don't change it 52246 Porta potty somewhere?
4/26/2021 1:15 PM No Never No Very little. What’s wrong with the existing park.
It’s allegedly more “accessible”, then why no examples of it being used by anyone other than
upright figures. Why not accessible structures instead of an essentially flat park?52240 If the City spent money on parks south of Highway 6 for a change. The Downtown has enough.
4/26/2021 1:15 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Climbing contraptions and tall slide, shade sails.
It looks like a ton of children won't really be able to play at once (the current structure is already
pretty crowded with a lot more to do). The concept is pretty, but with more open space and "art"
type equipment than play equipment, it looks like aesthetics were the priority over capacity for
play.52245
More shade. Railings to create a more contained space to discourage kids from wandering over to
the fountain area. More climbable structures and high play places. Division of play areas for little
kids/big kids (like at Mercer park)--so many toddlers get knocked down by older kids playing tag.
4/26/2021 1:15 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The bright colors and vibrancy Nothing 52245 Nothing
4/26/2021 1:23 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shade component - especially in an area surrounded by stone.
Obstacle Play Equipment (Item #2). The Peninsula Iowa City has similar equipment - it is
unpopular and underutilized.52240
Honestly, we love the existing playground. I'm not sure why it's being replaced, but we won't fight
progress.
4/26/2021 1:37 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The canopies will be a great way to keep children out of the sun, and I love the bright colors No 52241 Water Bottle fillers and dog drinking fountains
4/26/2021 1:38 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade Seems like less stuff to do, seems like it would handle fewer kids 52245 hopscotch? other simpler things?
4/26/2021 1:55 PM No 2 times or less per year No Colorful. Looks to be protective from the sun Does looks to be handicapped accessible or have swings or things that all kids can enjoy.52241
I would add things that all kids could enjoy even those who are in wheelchairs. Add some
wheelchair accessible swings and playground equipment
4/26/2021 1:59 PM No 3 times or more per year Yes
It's colorful and has a book/learning theme to part of it. Adequate shade is provided to keep
surfaces from getting too hot in the summer (hopefully). Rubberized surfacing is nice for safety.
The distinct lack of accessibility and inclusivity for children with disabilities (mental and/or
physical). The tiny sensory wall looks like the smallest thing in the whole playground while every
other item requires physically climbing over/under it to experience. There is a huge opportunity
being missed to provide a service for children with and without disabilities to come interact and
have fun equally on a playground, not to mention it makes the Ped Mall more appealing to the
families of disabled children for an afternoon of fun as well. Even changing up one or two of the
smaller structures to something more accessible and inclusive would make a huge difference.52240 A little bit of shade over nearby benches would be nice.
4/26/2021 2:00 PM No 2 times or less per year No The slide tower.
Seems inferior to the existing playground and I feel it would be wise to assume drunk adults will
be using this and take that into account when thinking about durability and safety. I just don't see
the advantage of this design though perhaps I'm too out of touch but i was quite the playground
conoceur as a child. Also the sight lines on the existing structure seem better 52246
Honestly we might do well to try and move it closer to Chauncey park if that's possible or just use
these funds across other playgrounds. It really seems like the existing one is still pretty good - I
played on it with a family friends kid and the design seemed robust and allowed for both
structured and unstructured movement and play.
4/26/2021 2:15 PM No 2 times or less per year Yes
It is impossible to tell anything from a conceptual sketch (especially when the legend is barely
readable)
It is colorful.
It is impossible to tell anything from a conceptual sketch (especially when the legend is barely
readable)
What are the materials? Will it be resistant to vandalism?
The structures will be used (or misused) by a variety of adults in various stages of intoxication. It
m ust be designed for this or it will not survive the first football weekend.
Previous ped mall designs (benches) failed to take this into account.52245 not putting out poorly designed surveys to make the public think we have input
4/26/2021 2:28 PM No 2 times or less per year No Everything Nothing 52245 Nothing
4/26/2021 2:30 PM No 3 times or more per year Yes
The idea to improve this area in general. I am in this area of downtown everyday and I enjoy
seeing the community using this area in front of the library and local restaurants. However, I do
not like the current concept as it is shown. It distracts away from the beauty of what is already
there without adding anything to the improvements that have taken place on the Ped Mall in the
last few years (new canopy, new paving)
I do not like the colors and materials selected for this new concept. The colors do not relate to
the surroundings in any way and do not teach anything to those that use this area. The materials
are not chosen with sustainability and resilience over the life of the playground in mind. Natural
materials could be used instead that would teach something about natural materials available in
our region (stone, wood). Muted colors could be chosen that aren't necessarily exact matches to
the existing buildings and built context but that harmonize with the color palette rather than defy
it arbitrarily. Even if bright colors are used, there could be an improvement in how the color
palette is composed instead of having so many different colors used all together without any type
of system or aesthetic judgement exercised.52245
This playground is a great asset to our community and provides a valuable gathering space in the
heart of downtown. The playground could contribute as a symbol and manifestation of
sustainability and resilience goals that the city has expressed in other ways. The playground could
prove to be a didactic tool that surrounds our children with natural materials from our region and
expresses to them that we care about their future on this earth. Providing arbitrarily colorful,
plastic and metal playground equipment provides a short-lasting joy and is grown out of quickly as
children become teenagers and then adults in our community. Thinking more critically about
place and integrating this into the playground design creates an asset in the community that is
meaningful to many different age groups and will be taken care of more meaningfully in the
future because it contributes to what downtown Iowa City means to the people that use it
regularly.
4/26/2021 2:35 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shade options. It also has areas for age-appropriate play
This playground looks as though there is less play space than the one that is currently there. While
I do appreciate that I won't have as many heart-stopping moments when my little one attempts to
go to the top with the big kids, there's not a lot of space to play for kids that are suited for kids at
the 4-7 mark. The obstacle play equipment tends to get overtaken by older kids, so that my
almost-6 year-old doesn't want to play on them, and my 3-year-old cannot. I personally would
prefer a bigger space like the play tower. The multiple play towers are my kids' favorite part of the
downtown playground right now.52245
Having multi-age areas, more shade, and more places where grown ups can sit/interact with the
space (rather than benches far away from the action). Whenever we are there, the slides and the
talking tubes are a hit!
4/26/2021 2:38 PM No 3 times or more per year Yes I enjoy the overhead shades and coverings.
I think the existing playground is quite nice and I really do not see a need to replace it. The new
design also seems highly cramped for space.52240
I think adding something like a shaded portion or “pavilion” style area could be very nice as well
as an exterior drinking fountain for hot days.
4/26/2021 3:06 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
Potential for shade. Obstacle course and play tower look great. How many kids can be on the
obstacle course at the same time?
Doesn't seem as integrated as the current one. The structures are not connected; don't seem to
allow for mixed age play.52245
Our family likes the current structure, but I understand that it needs to be updated. I'm grateful
that we have a playground adjoining the public library and food options. Though it is small, the
experience packs a punch!
4/26/2021 3:25 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The colors and variety It doesn’t look very inclusive 52246 Inclusivity- access for children with all levels of ability and adaptive equipment
4/26/2021 3:28 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes That shade and seating are considered.
Overall it feels uninspired for the space, incohesive, and that there is less for kids to do. This
doesn't feel well thought out but rather hodgepodged together from a catalogue. There is an
opportunity to do something really cool and true to the character of Iowa City. Think about how it
will be incorporated into the surrounding space and events—for example, relate the design to
how kids will play in the fountain or Friday night concert series. The designers need to come
observe these events and how children interact with the environment to be properly inspired.
The resources for the shade structures could be better applied to the overall cohesiveness of the
design.
With the only two slides on the same structure this presents a congestion point and a point of
conflict. There should be more for big kids to enjoy.
I'm worried that the shade structure above the obstacle equipment will prove too tempting to
climb and damage to drunk students. I would hate to see the playground shut down because of
that (think about the Park rd bridge).52245
Do we really want to tear up the ped-mall again for another year? Please don't do this. Iowa City
used to have such a great playground, this feels like a shame and a waste of resources to tear it up
again for this lack luster design.
Keep the day-drinkers and drunk kids at bay. I don't want to take my kids around that, especially
little kids.
It looks like this design tries to incorporate a lot of activities for little kids, there has to be activities
for little kids and big kids alike.
4/26/2021 3:28 PM No 2 times or less per year No Very artistic looking. Coolfactor
This looks like it’s for little kids. I need something that can also support a 21 yr old after the
airliner.52240 Adult equipment.
4/26/2021 4:14 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shade features are nice
Looks like less climbing and structures for kids to play on. As a park goer all over the corridor, this
seems like a mish mash of ground level 'interactive' items that in theory are cool, but only keep
the attraction of kids for a few moments. I like the existing off the ground play structures that
allow kids to climb around and have fun being up off the ground, which is a big hit with our 5 year
old son.52241
Age limiting, seems like there can be some highspeed preteens kids who are way too old to be
running around past the <5 year old crowd.
4/26/2021 4:22 PM No 3 times or more per year Yes I like the shade and the general cool modern design.Nothing that I can think of, it looks pretty good, I like it a lot.52245 I like those seat things that spin around.
4/26/2021 4:34 PM No 3 times or more per year Yes
The new playground equipment looks modern and like it will stand the test of time. I appreicate
it's subtle literary theme, which tie both to the adjacent Iowa City Public Library and the UNESCO
City of Literature recognition. It looks like it would be enjoyed by many age groups, including as a
backdrop for photos for young adults and families. The books double as a literary statement and
an interactive element.
I'm worried the black shade canopy poles will encourage grafitti or damage or could be hot to the
touch for kids, posing a safety hazard. Overall I really like the shade canopy, particularly the color
variations.55415
I'd love to see Edison bulbs strong between the center of the new playground or creative
uplighting to match the Weatherdance Stage.
4/26/2021 4:58 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The colors.
There is less to do for kids than the current playground. It seems to be designed with aesthetics in
mind, not kids.52246 Keep the bouncy floor.
4/26/2021 4:58 PM No 2 times or less per year No Variety of actives, shade, and room for wheelchairs to maneuver.I'm concerned about apparent lack of interactive play space for disabled children.52240 Inclusivity. I like the design so far, however!
4/26/2021 5:39 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade, activity variety Not sure 52245
Make it more accessible for young toddler children and blind children - they enjoy swings,
spinning etc - movement that doesn't require visual input.
4/26/2021 5:51 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The revamp in general is great. The current playground is getting too old.It’s not accessible.52246
Having enough SPACE for wheelchairs is not making a playground accessible. Having pieces of the
playground MEANT for people in wheelchairs is how you make a playground accessible. There are
many playground swings and other interactive options specifically designed for children in
wheelchairs that should be included.
4/26/2021 5:56 PM No 2 times or less per year Yes The slides and the climbing equipment.It looks smaller and less expansive with less things to do.52246 Leaving it as-is.
4/26/2021 6:39 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade!! It gets so hot down there, shade is a must.I think it looks great.52245 More sitting areas for parents that are shaded.
4/26/2021 6:55 PM No 3 times or more per year Yes Bright colors. Some shade over seating benches would be nice.
Looks like a spaceship and seems too confining, doesn't look very accessible to adults if need to
reach child, too much shade, kids need some sun.52245
Similar structure to what is currently there, but add some outdoor music making type pieces
(areas that make sound when you stand there, outdoor xylophone type equipment, etc).
4/26/2021 7:19 PM No 2 times or less per year Yes Interactive and sensory panel No 52245 No
4/26/2021 8:24 PM Yes 3 times or more per year No More things to do, hands on.Not sure.52240 Not sure.
4/26/2021 8:40 PM No 3 times or more per year No Love that it is colorful!
Takes up a lot of space that could be used for a variety of activities and not just 10% of the overall
population in that age group.52240 .
4/26/2021 8:48 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The money.
I very much disapprove of taking out the old so full of history and memories and milestones that
have happened there. It rips my heart out. The trees and space by the farmers market was
destroyed for construction parking. That space will never be the same again. It held such dear
memories. Now you want to replace the ped mall space.
All the equipment looks fun, but unmanageable for younger children. Families survive their small
child years in this space. Bread Garden, Library, and the play structure are all vital. Add to the
places we can go down town with play structures in other locations. Don't congest this space with
more pieces and bigger things that parents have to navigate with more people and more spaces to
manage.
Honestly I am just sick knowing this is probably going to happen. ..... 600,000 dollars to work with?
How can it be used to expand experiences in multiple spaces all close by? Families need options to
shift throughout downtown. NOT be congested all in the same place or have no where else to land
within walking distance. Bigger is not better! Creating options is better. What other spaces are
available to creat in? Beside the farmers market? The other end of the ped mall near 10,000
villages? The Java House would benefit from this. The green space on Iowa and Linn? Festival
goers would live this. Are there other spaces?
Please reconsider. We loose when we are always replacing.52240 To have multiple locations for play.
4/26/2021 9:18 PM No Never No N/a
I think it’s a poor use of space downtown. The playground is right around the corner from bars
and a hotel. It’s not a safe environment for children. Also being a “college town” it’s quite strange
to expand upon a playground in the downtown area.52240
I would suggest making it an area for artists (students or locals) to display their sculptures,
rotating the sculptures every few months. Also further seating and/ or space for another food
cart. There’s not much space to just “hang out” downtown - and it would be a plus to look at
something besides buildings.
4/26/2021 9:45 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Bright colors Not enough inclusion for special needs 52317 Handicapped Accessible
4/26/2021 9:48 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Colorful, musical, appealing for all age ranges. Open access to benches
This looks beautiful! We are at this playground multiple times per week and love the diverse
options in this plan.52246 Continued availability and maintenance of the structure. We love our downtown play experience!
4/26/2021 9:52 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
I don’t like it. I’d prefer something more natural and open so we can see kids from anywhere
around the playground. The current one has a little something for every one and I can see kids
even if I’m at the fountain, and they can see me.It appears more closed off and artificial. My first though was circus, and not sure it would age well.52245
A more natural playscape like the play area by Big Grove. A structure with multiple levels but
open design with a lot of visibility from anywhere around that ped mall space.
4/26/2021 10:14 PM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes I like the variety of equipment it offers.
I was hopeful that despite the expense the city might have looked into making this an ADA
compliant playground for kids of all abilities. It seems the area would benefit from a playground
that all children could use and access. Especially with its location near the hospital and library.52317 Accessibility for all children. Making sure the area is safe for children to play.
4/26/2021 10:24 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shade features. Sometimes it gets HOT on those slides.
It is a lot to look at and I have heard some concerns about ada issues... I don't have children with
needs like that so I defer to them as they are experts in their kiddos needs.52240 Charging stations. I often work remotely where my kids can play.
4/26/2021 10:40 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes A variety of options None 52245 A variety of play options
4/26/2021 11:10 PM Yes 2 times or less per year No Vivid Color, new design & inclusivity
Shade is metal or fabric? If fabric, not resistant
Missing more slides & activities to build confidence 52246 Opening up downtown with a festival or announcement inviting us to come visit.
4/27/2021 12:22 AM Yes 2 times or less per year No
Flags for shade
Something new downtown
Current playground has high, open spaces; this tower seems enclosed & safer.
Nice colours & lots to look at but not much to do to stretch or build leg/ arm muscles. The sensory
boards shown could not be moved by young children or many with disabilities. The literacy display
is clever (library/ City of Lit) but doesn't look fun and crawling toddlers might get stepped on by
older children going up/down.52245
Different design for multiple ages/ abilities. Make sure equipment & ground covering is not
slippery for children & adults if wet.
4/27/2021 12:39 AM No Never No
I love it all! seems way more interactive and engaging, and i think the shade is a great idea as well
as the interactive sensory panel and book display!!!!N/A 52245 I am an adult so i dont find myself engaging with playgrounds much (except for swings!)
4/27/2021 5:42 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shade sails.
There are so many different ‘areas’ I’m not sure it will lend itself as well to cooperative
imaginative play. The colors are also a little much. One of my children is on the spectrum and I’m
afraid he will find it overwhelming. If the interactive sensory panel makes loud noises, that would
be a problem for him too. Also, the only thing wrong with the old structure is the lack of shade.
Why not just add shade sails to the old structure?52246 Shade and more benches. My kids already love the old play structure
4/27/2021 6:09 AM No 3 times or more per year Yes OBSTACLE PLAY EQUIPMENT THE SHADE STRUCTURE LOOKS LIKE IT WOULD GET DIRTY/RIP/TEAR 52336 MONKEY BARS/SWINGS
4/27/2021 6:54 AM No 3 times or more per year Yes
I like the shade provided to protect from sun damage. I'm generally a fan of the rubber mulch
mats (I'm hoping it will be from ground up old tires or a similar recycled source). I like the book
play theme tying it to the library location. I'm a big fan of the interactive/sensory play element. It
looks like a child who uses crutches or a wheelchair should be able to get around and between the
elements of the playground.
This is more a suggestion than a dislike, because I can't tell in from the pictures, but I hope that
the slides will have the ability to grip the sides, making them more accessible and usable by a
broader range of ages. I'm also hoping that the planters are going to remain.52240
Not being concerned about a pandemic? Not helpful, I realize. And, hopefully, not a long-long-
term primary concern.
4/27/2021 6:58 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Lot of things to do, seems very creative. Looks like kids will love it Nothing 52245 Keep the rubber floor concept
4/27/2021 6:59 AM No 3 times or more per year Yes
The shade barriers. It will be nice to have some shade on the equipment to keep it from getting so
hot.It’s hard to see the details by the picture.52240
More sensory development options for toddler age kids who cannot use the big equipment yet.
Splash pad area for when it’s really hot outside
4/27/2021 7:00 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shaded areas and areas for older kids Not sure yet, looks fun and inclusive 52240 Shade and more areas to sit (eat and drink) and watch kids
4/27/2021 7:04 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The colorful design and modern look
No swings from what I can tell, but I’m old school and remember being taken out by one. So I’m
understanding of why they’re absent.52404 The new design is a much needed improvement!
4/27/2021 7:17 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
I like the bright colors of the shade structure and the sensory panels. It feels welcoming and
inclusive for children of all ages and abilities.Nothing comes to mind.52353 A water element would be cool for warm months.
4/27/2021 7:36 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I like that you are trying to be more inclusive and keep equipment new/fresh/up to date
Where to start?
I love that you are meeting ADA standards and I don't have a child with a disability. However,
taking away the majority of fun climbing structures is not the answer. We are an amazing city and
I bet you can come up with a structure that includes climbing, towers, hiding spots as well as
structures that children with disabilities can navigate.
The colors are overwhelming. It sticks out like a sore thumb. How about colors found in nature?
The park in NL with the climbing rocks, or even the park by the River/Big Grove looks great. A park
doesn't need to look like a crayon box to be fun!!
I love the current structure. Our kids have enjoyed it since 1 year old and are now 6 and 9. They
would hate this new proposal and be bored in about a minute. We come to downtown specifically
for the park sometimes. I can sit and read while they play for an hour. We then grab a bite or do a
bit of shopping. No way would i drive downtown for this park and my kids would never ask me to.52245
More shad for parents/those sitting. More seating, even if not formal benches, how about stumps
or logs or something. Edible garden.
4/27/2021 7:39 AM No Never Yes It looks more exciting and colorful. It's time for an upgrade.Nothing I can think of.52333
I grew up in Iowa City and we played on the old wooden structure that used to be there a billion
years ago. We also played in the brick death trap fountain. It's part of downtown Iowa City to have
a fountain kids can play in while their parents are listening to Friday night music or during
Arts/Jazz Fest. I think you should just put in a true splash pad and let the kids have a good time.
4/27/2021 7:50 AM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes The agility pieces for older kids I still like a traditional structure for small children with multiple slides 52403
Potentially some covered pavilions for eating takeout - more shade - handwashing station and
water bottle fillling spot nearby
4/27/2021 7:51 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes space tower It needs more climbing structures 52302 uniqueness
4/27/2021 7:56 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
Had to be covered. Last time took my kids there equipment was so hot it burnt there skin.
Playground equipment n mat on ground TOO HOT
Last time took my kids there equipment was so hot it burnt there skin. Playground equipment n
mat on ground TOO HOT 53240 EVERYTHING on playground covers from sun
4/27/2021 8:00 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Possible Shade, bright colors Unsure 52241 Unsure
4/27/2021 8:04 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade! And the main play structure Not a big fan of the obstacle structure. I don't see many kids using those at other playgrounds 52317
Shade and more seating are needed in the playground area. Please don't get rid of the
fountain/splash pad either
4/27/2021 8:05 AM No 2 times or less per year Yes More kid stuff Nope 50702 Nope
4/27/2021 8:21 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I like the added shade. I also like the climbing features and slide structure.
I think my kids will miss the bridge from the old (current) structure but this plan looks more
accessible.52246
I have heard some parents asking for a fence around the ped mall play structure and I am NOT in
favor of any fencing.
4/27/2021 8:25 AM No Never No Increased shade is a good idea, especially after losing the ash trees downtown.Nothing 52240 Nothing. I think this will be better than what's there.
4/27/2021 8:42 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
It's making people talk! We are conversing on NextDoor. A survey indicates you're getting closer
to making decisions. I'd like to know when you all meet about this -- is there an email list-serv on
this evolving playground project? Pls email phc52240@gmail.com
Avoid colors and be forward thinking! This link discusses how playgrounds are more advantageous
to childhood development when the playgrounds are non-colorful -- what early-childhood experts
have known all along! https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5083879/52240
Less color, keeping us involved. We'd like to know what's next! Thank you, C Andi Woods,
Preventive Health Center of Iowa City (my MPH website in development), phc52240@gmail.com
<-- pls let me know how we all can get on an email notification system about this playground
development, and good luck!
4/27/2021 8:43 AM No 2 times or less per year Yes Colorful and includes some shaded areas Needs to be more open for many children to congregate and to run through and play 52246 Have a safe playground that could be used by all children
4/27/2021 8:45 AM No 2 times or less per year Yes Shaded areas, thoughts for accessability.
The design is very busy, and has concerns of parents/guardians not being able to keep an eye on
their child/children without having to constantly move around. Also concerns of
damage/vandalism that could be experienced during evening/night by students or other patrons
of the pedestrian mall.52240 Open, Safe, accessible. Simplicity in an fun design I think would be best!
4/27/2021 9:34 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I like the canopies that provide (hopefully!) some shade to keep the playground area cooler.
I feel like this design is very limited for access to both kids and parents with mobility limitations
(parents who might need to reach kids in distress). Also, the current playground allows for a lot of
"through" play- multiple entrances and exits to the climbing areas preventing congestion or kids
feeling trapped in while waiting for other kids to move out of their way. It seems like the one
climbing structure with slides has very limited entrance/exits.52240
A fence or other type of gate that can limit the exits/entrances to the playground area- it would
be a huge help for parents with multiple kids to have a smaller number of "escape" opportunities.
I know one of my children wandered away from the playground once and into the library on his
own, and I know of many other similar stories. Kids are fast, and when a playground is busy it is
easy for one kid to slip away, especially to a familiar place like the library.
4/27/2021 9:36 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Uniqueness Lack of handicap accessible 52240 More handicap friendly equipment
4/27/2021 9:44 AM No 2 times or less per year Yes Color - it's new and different.
It does not include any accessible equipment for kiddos with disabilities. Yes, the activities on the
perimeter are nice, but there should be components for kids of all ages and abilities.52241
Accessible equipment so kids of all ages and abilities have the opportunity to play in an inclusive
environment. It's on the City to set an example, and this design falls far short.
4/27/2021 9:50 AM No 2 times or less per year No Very colorful and looks substantial/unique
Tone down the colors, I think this may draw attention away from the artist benches and the
nature on the park.52242 N/a
4/27/2021 9:55 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
Playground looks like it appeals to all ages and is inclusive. I like the colors. And, the books stair
climber. I also like the shades. This is very appealing playground that is innovative and doesn't
look like the typical school playground.Not really 52240 New play equipment. Shade.
4/27/2021 10:23 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade The lack of elevated play and slides 52240
The current play set has small slides for littles along with the racing slide and other two larger
slides. That variety is a key part of what our children look forward to. I see a lot of waiting in line
or shoving for the one slide here.
4/27/2021 10:26 AM Yes 3 times or more per year No
shade elements for the summer, but would prefer if they could be removed for the fall through
spring when they're not needed
The proposed colors, which do not relate to the surroundings or other recent Ped Mall
improvements. Too much plastic & rubber.52240
Material & color palette that relates to its surroundings, and reduces urban heat island affect with
more natural materials. I realize that maintenance may be increased, but some natural turf
would be nice to include.
4/27/2021 10:49 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Looks neat and goes with the new buildings around.
There is not enough activities for the kids. The current (old) playground is GREAT in this aspect,
with at least 20 things kids of different ages can play with and lots of details to explore. I'd bring
kids to downtown just to play at this playground. The new design has so much less going on.
Actually, the new one seems an entire scale smaller than the old one.52245
May I suggest adding something that kids (>5) can hang on to and challenge themselves with, such
as monkey bars? Also, incorporating the feel/flow of an obstacle course is always fun for the kids
and allow more kids to enjoy the playground at the same time without having to wait for their
turns.
4/27/2021 10:58 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes interactive/sensory panel, shade structure, rubber mat lack of inclusive equipment 52241
add playground equipment that can be used by children with disabilities so it is more of an
inclusive playground
4/27/2021 10:58 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes It’s bigger and more things to play on.It looks very - “only for small children” ish. Like aged 5 or less.52240 Things that engage older school aged kids.
4/27/2021 11:10 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
space for parents to also play closely with their children!
it seems as if this new design is safer as well!
thank you nothing 52317 more seating
4/27/2021 11:19 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The book play sculpture.Not enough inclusive play options.52761 Swings and other equipment that work for everyone and ramps, etc. for playstructures.
4/27/2021 11:30 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shade structures
The colors. Kids don't like neon colored plastic playgrounds. Earth tones would be more
harmonious with the ped mall.52246 Less plastic play equipment. More natural materials.
4/27/2021 11:31 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I like the spaceship central space and the effort to be inclusive.
I like very little of it. The colors are abrasive, the structures look chaotic, and there doesn't seem
to be a lot of imaginative spaces. I'm sure actual children can come up with something involving
the climbing net structure, but it looks very boring to adult eyes.52240
Leaving space for quiet play, a less aggressive color scheme, more natural materials, and higher
slides.
4/27/2021 11:37 AM No 3 times or more per year Yes
I like the sensory panel--- it will hopefully provide an opportunity for those with varying
developmental needs to participate in play.
I am concerned about the level of accessibility provided on the proposed playground. There are
limited opportunities for inclusive play for those with mobility needs. The current structure is very
difficult to access for children with any type of mobility difficulty (e.g. from balance issues to those
requiring wheelchair access).52340 It would be great to see the design modified to better include children with all abilities.
4/27/2021 11:43 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes the slide
The colors; doesn't seem to be as much climbing or walking on structures as the current design.
The current structure is not 20 years old, seems in excellent condition. Our family does not feel
this should be a priority to be funded.52240
Less construction; the safety of the ped mall. Seems to be more loud, disrespectful college
students and homeless using the benches. Doesn't feel as family friendly as it did a few years ago.
4/27/2021 11:43 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I love that it is accessible to all and the new shade plans I would love if there were swings or something that spins 52241 More seating for parents
4/27/2021 11:55 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Meh.
There seems to be more emphasis on aesthetic with the color scheme & overhangs that dont
seem to provide much function of shade than there is on actual play elements. We're removing
more play structure to replace it with more infrastructure for cloth banners? Kids dont care about
that, they want things to play with and on.52340 More elements toddlers / kids can climb.
4/27/2021 12:31 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade offered. interactive and sensory options it would be nice to incorporate options for older and much younger kids.52206
Is there a drinking fountain/ water refill station and or handwashing station close? I hope the
current play fountains stay.
4/27/2021 12:32 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Nothing Not fully ADA compliant. Please don't leave children out.52240 Make it fully accessible to children with disabilities and autistic children.
4/27/2021 12:53 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes variety of apparatus and shading appears cluttered and seems to be over-filled with stuff 52317 more benches for parents
4/27/2021 12:59 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I like how colorful it is!
I would love to see a more inclusive playground--one that kids of all abilities would be able to
utilize. I also am nervous about the sight lines in this playground concept. With the ped mall
being such a high traffic area, being able to easily see my kids while they play is VERY important to
me and I am not sure this playground easily allows that.52245
I HIGHLY suggest putting a fence around this playground area. I only feel comfortable allowing my
kids to play on the downtown playground when my partner or another adult is with us because it
is such a high traffic area and because there are so many different directions my kids could go if
they decided to sneak away from the playground. Having a fence around it would be highly
beneficial.
4/27/2021 1:16 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Colorful design No swings! :(52240 Swings :)
4/27/2021 1:43 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
-shade
-rope climbing structure
-glass looking colored wall (artistic)
-I don't see any music features and I think that is appropriate for downtown. They are very loud
and would be heard within the businesses and disruptive to outdoor eating and concerts.
-Color scheme is too bright. Would love to see a more subdued color scheme that fits better in
the downtown area. I know some are suggesting more natural features but again, I don't think
downtown is the place for that. It seems like architecture and art should be taken into
consideration when adding a play structure to a downtown area.
-I dislike how small the actual structure is. One thing that's really nice about the current structure
(and the wooden one that was there previously) is that you can run around on actual structure.
There's different levels and places to go.
-The interactive boards are fun but I have never seem them continue working for long on a
playground. If they are incorporated, will the city ensure the replacement of broken pieces?
-The enclosed portion of the structure does not seem ideal for a location where adults are
frequently looking for places to sleep at night.52246
-I would not include a fence (like some people are suggesting). It doesn't fit with the aesthetic of a
downtown playground.
-I would not include more water features (like some people are suggesting). I'm guessing that's
not an option anyway since the ped mall was just reconstructed.
-It would be nice to have it look more artistic (like the glass looking colored wall) and not just
another playground structure since it is in a place where adults frequent. Is it possible to skip the
typical playground structure and include playful art
(http://www.jacobdahlgren.com/?p=6280&fbclid=IwAR3LHABdXEZcSIaAUJkl3EhaPgks41wX0HNer
ZmbfUmMPmbd-5IIUF7emmk) that children can interact with? That's the route the city took with
the downtown fountain. It doesn't look like a typical splash pad but provides water play. I know
the example in the link is not very inclusive for children with less mobility so something in addition
to this would be needed.
-Many high school and college students use this structure. Although, I know it's intended for
younger children, I really think that should be taken into consideration based on the fact that it is
downtown.
-My suggestion is to remove some (not all) of the playscape features for toddlers and make a
larger structure that includes height and climbing for those who are able to physically assess them
but also include lower entry access and places for younger children and those with limited
mobility to access the structure. The school district has been reworking their playground
rules/expectations and parents are not content with minimum ADA compliance. Our city should
not be either.
Contact info: Lbroffitt@yahoo.com
4/27/2021 1:48 PM No Never No squish
not enough squish. would like to see swings for all. dark metal on the play tower seems like it
could/would get rather hot especially with minimal breeze and that doesnt seem like it would be
very fun.52240 squish everywhere. all of downtown squish. addition of swings.
4/27/2021 1:50 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shade!
I wish it were a little more inclusive instead of simply accessible. e.g.
https://www.miracleparkplace.com/blog/accessible-vs-inclusive-playgrounds/52240
I really appreciate that the design includes several structures/areas instead of one large,
connected piece. Some sort of fence/single entry point would also be helpful.
4/27/2021 2:35 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes the tower/rocket thing in the middle looks interesting, Maybe add another one?
Not a fan of the colors, too garish. It feels too open but I guess that leaves room for the kids to
run.52246 don't know
4/27/2021 3:07 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Nothing
It doesn't appear that there is an appropriate small kids/toddlers area. With the big playgrounds,
like the one at City Park, all the ages play together since everyone wants to play on the same
playground, and the smaller kids have to deal with the older kids not watching out for them.52240 Small-kid friendly equipment
4/27/2021 3:09 PM Yes Never No
Iowa City has been dying for the last 10 years. It's only a matter of a few years and there will be
nothing left. One horse town.
Just a waste of taxpayer money. When the students transition to online the state will take away
funding and then ghost town. It will happen and it's a matter of finances. Stop wasting money on
saving a dead downtown.52241
Put in a waterpark. Nobody cares about a UNESCO city of literature. Nobody. Don't skimp on
the waterpark either. Spend 30 to 50 million just like the University does on decaying buildings.
Then well have somthing!
4/27/2021 3:32 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
Multiple Areas with play for wider age ranges than previously
Shade structures
Having just one main elevated structure
It was good for the kids to have an elevated area to run, traverse, but understand there are trade
offs 52245
Ample seating
Toddler and younger play areas
Diversity of offerings
4/27/2021 3:59 PM No Never Yes Shade, bench seating, tie into City of Literature, bright colors, really everything.
Like the interactive panel but wonder if it would be a constant maintenance issue - just a thought.
I don't have strong feelings about it either way.52246 I like all improvements that make our downtown family friendly.
4/27/2021 4:01 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Seems very cool
Need more things for younger kids. Seems very geared to 5 years and up. My 3 year old daughter
is just on the cusp of being ready for that slide system, and she would have been very upset that
she couldn't do the slide. For instance, the Longfellow playground has multiple areas with
different ages in mind. Perhaps that is already here, but it wasn't clear from the design.52240 I love the current playground, and am intrigued to see what you come up with
4/27/2021 4:09 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I love the bright colors and the shade that is provided!Not many options for toddlers, everything is very high.52333 A place for young children to play that I don't have to be scared of them falling out of.
4/27/2021 4:10 PM No Never Yes The colors, the books are super cute, lots of little things to do!The play tower seems too boring (its just for a slide or two?)52246 Swings maybe? Picnic table or something for pregnant women, those ASL learning boards
4/27/2021 4:19 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shaded Areas, Colorful and interactive for the kids. Plenty of seating for parents.Limited space- clutered 52317 Nothing
4/27/2021 4:24 PM No 3 times or more per year No
I like all the colors and that there is something for kids of all ages to do. I also like that there is
going to be some shade.It seems like if there are a lot of kids at the playground, there wont be enough room for them.52245
At least one more slide, my nephew loves slides and at playgrounds where they aren't many it
make it difficult for him and other kids to get a chance to use them.
4/27/2021 4:56 PM Yes Never No
Nothing. It wasn't too long ago that the current playground was installed and that should be good
for a long time.Everything. It wasn't too long ago that the current playground was installed. The cost is excessive.52246
Iowa City has spent MILLIONS of dollars on the Ped Mall over the last 30 years, constantly
"refreshing", "remodeling", and "restructuring" it about every 5 years or less. The Ped Mall seems
to be used only by college students to urinate and vomit, the homeless hangout, and a few
mothers with children who have been to the library. The attitude is that the rest of Iowa City can
go and hang because they don't matter AT ALL. Hunters Run Park, according to someone who
lives next to it, is almost never used because it is unfriendly to use, hardly gets any attention by
the city government and as a result is now planted with weeds and a few wildflowers so that the
city only has to do the bare minimum of mowing. The park sits next to highway 218 with all the
noise, exposure, and traffic; has only a couple of amenities which aren't friendly to use. The park
is far away from most of that westside area, so most people use Weber Elementary School's
playground for their children. Little to no money is put into the far westside parks improvements
or the westside area. You only have to drive down Rohret Road, THE MAIN ROAD, with its
hundreds of lumpy potholes and no real street repair, to understand how abandoned the westside
is. Then you look at the abandoned Hunters Run Park with only a very few users.
4/27/2021 5:03 PM No 2 times or less per year No The colors I guess Too big 52245 Less playground
4/27/2021 5:22 PM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes Added shade & color.The current one seems so much cooler. More ways to get on/off, slides, room to run, etc.52245 Nothing was wrong with it. Not sure what the need for a change is?
4/27/2021 5:25 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I do not care for it at all
There are too few physical activity areas and too little for very many children to participate in. The
color scheme is in no way comforting nor does it provide a pleasant area to relax and watch the
children 52240 Just revamp the current play structures. Why fix what isn’t broken?
4/27/2021 5:28 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I don't really like it, but if I had to choose it would be center section.
The center section is too small. That is what kids love so much about the current playground, they
love climbing on it and running on it. I think the new playground should be similar to the current
one, which btw seems to be in good condition and not really looking like it needs to be replaced.
Maybe don't be so wasteful?52245 If it were not constantly under construction.
4/27/2021 6:01 PM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes The shade structure (but not it’s garish colors).The circus-like color are garish and do not fit with the ped mall ambiance.52245
Good sight lines from one end of the play area all the way to the opposite side to aid I. Keeping
track of children
4/27/2021 6:56 PM No 3 times or more per year Yes
I only like it if it promoted inclusivity and allows my niece to play with any kid regsrdless of their
level of ability I think it needs to be inclusive to kids who aren't able bodied 52227 If it were completely inclusive to disabled kids
4/27/2021 8:00 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Overhead coverings
No access for disabilities on the one piece with slides, no easy access for parents to get thier kids
on the same piece, with so many separate parts kids aren't encouraged to play together, only one
piece with slides & ladders which is what kids like so that's limiting. The sensory boards aren't
exciting to kids for very long & will get wrecked at 1st home football game. Seems to be looking
more for a pretty decoration than an actual playground for kids.52240
Something more like Mercer with things to climb, slide, run. Need stairs & easy access for all. Can
designate an area for littles, but the sensory wall esp if it's a visual electric thing will be broken so
easily.
4/27/2021 8:01 PM No 3 times or more per year No Nothing
No real place for kids to interact as groups. Kids like to run over under and around. This plan just
has lots of what looks like sittings space with awnings.52245
The current playground meets the need of most children. How about something for the greater
benefit of the majority. We can not reduce this the lowest level just accommodate a few. If this
was the 1950’s would you build it so the kids in their iron lungs could play?
4/27/2021 8:28 PM No 2 times or less per year Yes
The shade is a definite improvement. I like the bright colors, it might look better if the color pallet
was more limited or cohesive though. The tower is a fun shape and I like that it has two levels. I do
feel like a wider tower would give room for more kids to play though.
I really don't like the vertical books that are placed in the orange circle, they feel too
random/uninteresting. I think the book stack and open book meant for climbing will be more fun
for kids while still having a literary theme.52240 An aesthetically pleasing playground that celebrates the artistic culture of Iowa City
4/27/2021 8:33 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
Nothing. The sight lines are not great for parents of multiple kids. I like knowing my kids have one
central place to be. This will put them more toward the outskirts. Also wondered if the sunblock
will have an adverse affect in blocking the night sky. Most parents are home with kids around the
noon hour anyway for lunch and naps.
Everything. It's oversimplified and "safe." Kids learn to measure risk on playgrounds. Trust us as
parents to do our job. It's good for kids to decide if they're ready to cross a wobbly bridge. It's
good to learn to navigate a pole or a slide without super protective walls. I've also found that the
"learning stations" are considered great by adults but are actually not enjoyed by kids. They get 5
minutes of wonder, then the novelty wears off.52246
Scrap this design and start with a new one. This will ruin the downtown experience for my kids.
It's like how they made the children's library all digital now. Do you know how hard it is to entice a
kid with books when there are video games to be played? If this goes through, we'll start driving
down to Washington for their huge wooden fort playground, which I'm sure is considered
dangerous by Iowa City officials.
4/27/2021 8:49 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I like the shade elements.
Not a big enough play structure. There are only 2 actual play structures and they are very small
compared to what is there now.52246 More climbing structures
4/27/2021 8:51 PM No Never No I think it's an ugly design concept. A third grader with a box of crayons could do a much better job.
Overall, I think it's a bad idea. It took over a year to remodel the Ped Mall a few years ago and it
costed taxpayers a lot of money. It was a disaster and it created a mess for people to access local
businesses on the Ped Mall. Besides, the Ped Mall doesn't look any different now compared to
what it used to look like before it was remodeled.52246 I'd rather chew on broken glass before visiting a playground.
4/27/2021 9:00 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Not much It does not allow the children to interact with play space. It is bewildering and intimidating 52340 Keep the current playground. There is no need to fix something that is not broken.
4/27/2021 9:30 PM Yes 3 times or more per year No
Nothing. It’s grotesque in concept. And what is with all the hideous colors, can’t you do something
that doesn’t make it look like a carnival midway?Just about everything.52246 Start over.
4/27/2021 10:14 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
I like the idea that it has more integrated space for kids to interact in. I also am impressed that it
seems accessible to children who are handicapped.
I am questioning the ability for parents/caregivers to be able to intervene if children need them.
Will there be adequate space for these adults to be close?52240
I would add more items that are handicapped accessible esp. for children in wheelchairs. There
are many handicapped playgrounds to gain insight from. I would suggest, adding more special
needs parents, teachers or caregivers to the idea board. We need to make sure our special needs
kids playtime needs are met.
4/28/2021 12:18 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shading. Some of the book/literature theme items.
There seems to be less play equipment that is spread out and easy to see what is going on and
allowing for more free movement. The Play Tower looks like it would be incredibly congested with
children in a very small space (especially when the play structure is busy, which happens often
downtown) - it would be difficult for parents to be able to keep track of their children inside that
tower. And it does not look conducive to parents being able to help children in there easily (e.g., if
parents need to assist younger children, children with disabilities, children who are anxious and
need parent support, etc.). The current structure at least has a lot of openness and inclusivity for
adults to assist children. I would also like to see this playground fenced in.52240
Fence in the playground area with a few entry points and keep the benches within the fenced
space. Choose a different play structure than the currently suggested Play Tower that allows for
adults to help children more easily who need such support. Include more options for children with
a wider variety of disabilities - again, my concern about some children who will need parent help
is part of my extreme dislike of the Play Tower. There is a very active community of local parents
who have children with disabilities - please seek them out and get input on what would be most
beneficial for their children. There are some nice inclusive play structure elements (e.g., things at
The Arc in Iowa City or many other non-local playgrounds) that could be added for individuals in
wheelchairs. Please do not just leave this proposed design as it is - please add a fence and choose
a different and more inclusive play structure instead of the Play Tower.
4/28/2021 4:40 AM No Never Yes
Shaded spots added into the concept... this part of the ped mall gets so much sunlight. Structures
that appear to give children challenges (I LOVED the wooden playground as a child...the levels
were tons of fun, in spite of the potential hazards that existed...the current one seemed tame and
a bit boring by comparison).
From the concept sketch, this new design overwhelms the senses. Too much going on. Too many
clashing colors. The ped mall is used by a variety of people and people who don’t utilize the
playground (but visit the pedestrian mall to shop and eat) may find this design overwhelming. Use
a natural or neutral color palette with splashes of color. Spare use of color for painted benches on
the ped mall and vibrant flowers in the planters.
I am also not sure if I like the idea of separate playground structures (a slide, a climbing frame,
etc). This functions well in a park or a school playground but perhaps not on the ped mall...maybe
it’s just that the structures in the concept sketch appear quite tall. The highest levels of the old
wooden playground were pretty high up, but it was just one structure that flowed nicely with the
space. This concept is a jumble of tall structures.52245
As a person who visits the ped mall frequently and someone who grew up with the old wooden
playground back in the 90s, it’s hard to think of the ped mall without the playground. It’s a central
part of it. I visit the ped mall frequently and eat at Bread Garden (which is in close proximity to
the playground), so the playground should compliment the space.
4/28/2021 6:30 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
I like the current playground set up. I don’t understand why it needs to be replaced. I understand
it is 20 years old but I think it is still good. It is a narrow space; this looks like a lot of different
things in a small space. Not sure what I think about the high tower with so many little ones on the
equipment downtown.I wish more parks would add splash pads I would prefer this to the fountain as it is slippery.52246
I don’t look forward to the construction period. Downtown has been under construction then with
covid we have not been able to spend as much time downtown. We used to be downtown every
weekend with the kids.
4/28/2021 6:42 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade The actual play structure seems way too small compared to the capacity of the current structure 52245 Shade and bathrooms.
4/28/2021 8:00 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Multiple climbing options and shade Rather more interactive panels than book displays 52240 Music or activated music by a child.
4/28/2021 9:02 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Glad to see shade and more bench seating for parents which the old playground was missing.
Keeping the older children separate from the younger children for safety reasons would be
preferred.52240 More shaded seating areas for adults.
4/28/2021 9:29 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The sun shaders. That is sorely needed.
I’m disappointed to see a lack of connectivity between the different stations. That was one of the
most notable features of the current layout. I also feel that the layout does not make as efficient
use of the space in comparison to the current structure.
The station specifically devoted to sensory input are wasted. It is rare that I see children using
these for more than a minute. The idea of sensory input is fine, but it should be incorporated via
different textures, colors, or auditory input from items that are part of the structure doing
something else (different types of grips or surfaces to move across, etc.).
Lastly, if you think that this is an inclusive playground, you are wrong. Just because someone
doesn’t have to navigate any kind of elevation change to get to a few of the items doesn’t make it
inclusive and fun. No kid who wants to use the slides can get there without climbing ladders,
which is a lot more intricate a task than adults seem to be able to remember. Anyone with any
degree of unsteadiness, or even a mild need for assistance to get to the slides will be cut out.
I also have two concerns regarding adult interaction with the space. First, much of the interactive
parts stand to be destroyed during the first home football game by drunken antics. By spreading
that sort of sensory output throughout the structure it provides less of a temptation- I think this is
one of the best strengths of the current design. Secondly, to return to the inclusivity issue listed
above, how easy is it for adults to enter the structure to accompany children or retrieve them if
they won’t come down or are scared? Is everything safety rated for adults (ALL adults? What if
they have a lifting limit and can’t navigate a ladder themselves safely?), and are there adult sized
apertures that can be navigated?
I appreciate the effort to update the space, but this plan needs some serious work.52240
More general diversity in businesses? I can remember greater diversity in the shops downtown
when I first moved here, most of which have been replaced by restaurants (or bars, even less
appealing for taking younger family members to the area). Also, even the shops that do
contribute to diversity aren't disability/mobility friendly. Iowa City has terrible inclusivity in this
regard. There are fewer than 10 handicapped accessible entrances to buildings downtown
outside of parking garages, and 2 of those go to the same bar. The city has already been on the
wrong end of a legal dispute regarding its school district playground and park accessibility.
4/28/2021 9:38 AM Yes 3 times or more per year No Waste of money Fix my street 52255 It is fine, the kids don't know or care about the age of the equipment.
4/28/2021 10:02 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
Sun shades, book/literary sculptures and structures, and sensory play panel. I like the vibrant
colors and the safety surfacing as well.
I wish that the play equipment and features were more accessible to persons with a range of
mobility, particularly for those using wheelchairs and other mobility devices. I often see the
downtown play structure used by young children (I am a parent of childre under 5), but much of
the large equipment lends itself to older children, could be a safety concern for young children,
and is not accessible.52240
This play area is a wonderful and needed fixture in the downtown area. I love its convenient
location next to the library, entertainment stage, and water fountain which are a huge draw for
families. Thank you for keeping the play of our young residents, visitors and their families in mind
for our downtown! Please keep inclusivity in mind. The library and downtown are areas that our
children with disabilities come to frequently, and I think it is so important for our community to be
open and inclusive to those of different needs and abilities. There are some great accessible
features in play equipment that have been added to other paly areas in town (Willow Creek and
Riverfront Crossings for example). I strongly urge you to consider the accessibility of play features
in this vital area for children and families to gather at the heart of our downtown.
4/28/2021 10:37 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I like the overall concept and accessibility for children of all ages (especially <5 yrs) and abilities.
I would appreciate more integration between the main rocket and the older ropes course area.
Specifically a way (or 2 would be even better for non-linear play) to get from the ropes structure
into the rocket without touching the ground. The monkey bars appear to dead-end on the side of
the rocket, if nothing else an opening for older children to get into the rocket would be helpful.
Also, a 2nd slide from the top level of the rocket (possibly on the side facing the library) would
make the top level even more of a destination (and improve traffic flow). If not a slide, then
another mode of egress (like a fire pole, etc).52241
I know this is a stretch for this project, but adding shade on the south end benches (across the
walkway from the playground) would be really nice. The theming of the playground shade is really
nice, so extending that into shade for those benches would help integrate the playground into the
ped mall.
4/28/2021 11:08 AM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes it’s nice expense. Kids use it for 2-6 years. I don’t think the playground needs updates at this time 52240 more shade for parents / benches
4/28/2021 11:32 AM No 3 times or more per year No Nothing. It’s a travesty compared to the current one you are replacing.
Garish colors - pretty much guaranteed to not age well. Playground ‘equipment’ that looks
fiendishly designed to maximize injuries and more or less guarantee the need for supervision at all
times to deal with the ‘accidents’52240
Slides! Children love them and each can occupy numerous children at once repeatedly climbing
up and sliding down.
4/28/2021 11:58 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shaded area
I cannot stress enough that this is NOT an inclusive playground concept. As stated, this is one of
your primary goals. I would suggest consulting with parents of children who have mobility issues
to truly understand what makes a playground inclusive.52245 The ability to take children with mobility issues
4/28/2021 12:18 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Colorful covered and Lloyd of climbing No 52245 Lots of benches around and small tables Soft flat surface as a base
4/28/2021 12:23 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Individually I like all the components. The park looks appealing with the color and overhead shade.
Overall, I think this design is too "choppy" and compartmentalized. The current structure is large
and gives space for lots of children to run and climb through it at once. I foresee that the center
climbing structure in the new design will be very congested. This new design doesn't offer an
opportunity for kids to play running/chasing games like tag.52245
A large, multi level structure suitable for both older and younger children to enjoy at once. At the
lower levels there should be handicap accessible options for play.
4/28/2021 12:52 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Soft floor and benches
It feels obnoxious and not thought through. The colors are too loud, sunscreens are crowding and
unnecessary, equipment looks plastic and cheap (even if it's not). First impression is McDonald's
play area.52245
Please consider the rest of the ped mall, those watching the kids and others passing by, not just
kids and City of Lit fans.
4/28/2021 1:33 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
Don't love it. It's boring.
Bright colors are good.
The bench seating is nice.
The playground design is boring. Also, it may be ADA compliant but doesn't look inclusive. A
couple of small sensory panels do not make up for the lack of thought put into making it inclusive.
There's not even a ramp for children in mobility devices to get to a higher level and be able to
interact with others. You have a library next door, you don't need a book display(s). Where is the
object that spins? Not worth replacing the old playground if this design is what you'll get.52240
Make the playground inclusive. It is not good the consultant's pictures can't even show one or
more children in mobility devices or using crutches. it shows they weren't thinking about inclusive
play.
Kids like to run and move between different size towers using ramps and tunnels. You could
create more room for kids to play by making more of the space multi-levels. Add a piece of
inclusive equipment that spins. Can kids hang from the obstacle? Replace the play tower with
pieces that children in mobility devices can use a ramp to get up to, add some connected pieces,
put at least 3 slides in, etc. This design looks trendy but Iowa City deserves more than trendy.
4/28/2021 1:50 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Most things Fence would be good 52240 Fence for safety around playground
4/28/2021 2:40 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I love how colorful it is, the literary themes and the shade!Having a structure that is accessible to caregivers with mobility issues would be desireable.52240 Try to keep sight lines to stage open.
4/28/2021 2:54 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes There are more options for smaller children Nothing 52246 A playground that incorporates smaller play sets for toddler aged kids
4/28/2021 6:37 PM No Never No Having playground shaded seems neat.The cost when so many things need to be worked on in the City of Iowa City.52245 NA
4/28/2021 8:22 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shade No water play 52240 Water play area
4/28/2021 9:56 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes New safer equipment More accessible play areas for children with disabilities 52240 Having a more accessible playground.
4/29/2021 8:01 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes It engages their abilities Make it for all ages 52246 Provide some shade maybe a water fountain for the littles
4/29/2021 8:24 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes It has fun colors to engage their minds
It seems more ascetic then functional. There’s not much for them to climb on doesn’t have a good
use of the area 52246 Give more options of play. Things that allows kids to run and climb
4/29/2021 8:48 AM No 3 times or more per year Yes
Recently I posted in the survey that I did not like the concept of the downtown play area. However
I did not factor in the inclusive aspect of this new concept. I am all for inclusiveness! Therefor, I
feel I must change my view on the downtown Play area. I think it is wonderful and will invite all
kids to join in and play and played together, leaving no child left behind.
I’ve had to change my mind on the concept of the play area downtown Iowa city. Initially I sent in
a survey that said I don’t like it however I’ve had to change how I feel about it because it is a
wonderful design to include all children to enjoy play and the play area.52241 I don’t have any other ideas as to how to improve the play area.
4/29/2021 10:59 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes This is a horrible design that will not accommodate kids with disabilities.
All of it. Make it wheelchair accessible. The ARC in Iowa City has an accessible playground,
collaborate with them to improve the design.52245 Having more inclusive spaces
4/29/2021 11:26 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
The shade! I would love to see the entire structure under a shade to provide more comfortable
and sun-safe play throughout the day/year. I also like how there are implicit areas for different
ages/sizes of kids to attract more children to the space while providing some separation between
larger and smaller kids.
The color scheme is too much. I appreciate color as much as anyone but the many vibrant colors
in this scheme create a sense of overstimulation and disorientation; I believe it would be better to
stick with a few colors (or even shades of colors). I am also not a fan of the stationary and
interactive "walls" (number 7 on the diagram) as I don't see how they add value to the play
experience or encourage meaningful large motor movement.52240 n/a
4/29/2021 12:22 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
It looks really fun and different from other playground options in the near downtown area. We go
to the playground weekly so will definitely use it! Love how colorful it looks. Like the shade
features as well!
Nothing that I can think of. I do hope it will be cutting edge in terms of accessibility. The ped mall
playground is a great option for wheelchair users because of how accessible the ped mall is. I also
think it sends a great message to all children, parents, and passers by that accessibility and
inclusion can be beautiful and fun for EVERYONE.52245 Nothing that I can think of, truly love that IC has a playground in the center of downtown.
4/29/2021 1:35 PM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes The height of the play equipment I am not thrilled about the color scheme.52240 More playground panel that teach our kids about good values.
4/29/2021 1:43 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes High slides I like everything shown.52241 More handicap accessible equipment.
4/29/2021 1:45 PM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes The rocket ship concept.It looks pretty close to the building.52242 More green grass near the playground
4/29/2021 1:47 PM Yes Never Yes Their will be a shaded area for the grandparents and parents to sit and watch the children play.Nothing.52246 Lighting around the play equipment.
4/29/2021 1:49 PM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes The rocket ship structure that has the slides on it.I like it all.52243 Fencing around the playground so no traffic can be near it.
4/29/2021 1:51 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The Arches with the pods on them. That looks like a neat climbing structure.It all looks pretty awesome.52245
I think there are too many different colors on the playground. Too busy looking. Pick only 3-4
colors.
4/29/2021 7:14 PM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes How colorful and inclusive it is.None 52358 None
4/29/2021 8:45 PM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes Large structure. Stuff for varying ages Seems very sterile. Not a lot of things to do.52241
Stuff for ages 2-12 would be nice. Not so spread out. Utilize the space given to put a lot of play
structures, swings, or other activities.
4/29/2021 11:35 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Love the inclusivity/accessibility, incorporation of books since near the library, shade panels
Doesn't have the same connectivity that current one has, with the large number of children who
sometimes play there at once, I foresee lots of "bottleneck areas" that can't really be used the
way the current one is to accommodate many children at once going multiple directions. For
example, the area identified as the obstacle course (#2 on diagram) has fun equipment for older
kids, but is difficult for a large volume of kids at a time. This is coming from an elem. teacher with
lots of recess duty supervision experience! Same with the tower structure in the middle, which
looks to be an area that would very quickly get over-crowded when many kids are present, such
as during summer day-camp hours or Friday night concert series. There needs to be more little
platforms, nooks and crannies for kids to move through and go in, over, under, across. The current
structure allows for lots of ways to play "under" it, which ends up almost providing two stories-
the proposed one doesn't.52245
Address the "bottleneck" areas above, replace/revise with items that allow for lots of kids to play
at once in ways that let them move back and forth/up and down, etc. Needs to be more bridges
or platforms in the structure that will allow for that, or kids will just have to stand around waiting
for their turn to "cross" the obstacle course items.
4/30/2021 1:21 AM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes Variety of things to do N/A 52317 Family oriented
4/30/2021 3:30 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes nothing no space for kids to be kids 52240
not plugging up the sound tubes, and making the slides more slippery. Not so sure about the
slides, though, since kids negotiating who goes up and who goes down them is part of learning to
interact with random peers.
4/30/2021 6:57 AM No Never Yes Great for kids.
You just redid all that, so now 5 years later you're gonna spend another ridiculous amount to do it
again? BUILD A DISC GOLF COURSE ON RYERSONS STATE PARK!!! Ask coralville how popular their
course at Altmier is....also Disc golf is the fastest growing sport in America, especially among the
younger demographic, the highest rated player in the state of Iowa right now, is 15 years
old.....build more, PLEASE!52245 More Disc golf.
4/30/2021 7:12 AM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes It is colorful.
$600,000?!?!
Please let this be a typo. You can build an enormous house and buy the land in IC for $600K. That
is an absolute waste of taxpayer money. Please either confirm that there is an extra zero in there
or go get another bid.52245 It is a great space. Maybe more food vendors.
4/30/2021 10:14 AM No Never Yes It will be better for kids To much play toys 52246 More wide verity
4/30/2021 11:22 AM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes
A shade structure is functional during a sunny summer day but it will depend on the height of the
shade which looks too high in the graphic.
The color scheme looks to be too loud, in relation to the surrounding.
The setup looks foreign to the site.
What aspect of the concept conveys the playground as a playground at the pedestrian mall?52240
A playground that is less prescriptive in the playground equipment but encourages more creative
playing, let the children create their own game
4/30/2021 2:47 PM No Never Yes I feel that fresh, safe Parks and Play Equipment keeps Iowa City Marketable.I'd not want to see it have repair issues.52302 Safety and Good Lighting
4/30/2021 2:48 PM Yes Never No good in theory.Too many bums downtown to subject children to. Clear them out!52245 see above comment.
4/30/2021 2:48 PM No 2 times or less per year No
I love the fact that the the new playground has so many different playground equipments, and the
shade seems like such a good idea.Nothing 52245 I would like the squishy floor to remain, and I think some swings would be cool.
4/30/2021 2:50 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes It is colorful and inviting.Doesn't look very friendly to handicapped.52245 Keeping area cleaner.
4/30/2021 2:54 PM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes It makes downtown more enticing yo families.I think you planned it very well!!52240 Having the improvement you are planning!
4/30/2021 2:54 PM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes Shade A bit dizzying with the color transitions 52246 Make it PRIDE colors with a rainbow progression
4/30/2021 3:01 PM Yes 3 times or more per year No The shade awnings
The color-scheme. Kids don't need these intense primary colors to attract them to a playground.
Muted colors that are pleasant for adults and kids alike would be better for all. This will be an
eyesore.52245 A soft-muted color scheme.
4/30/2021 3:09 PM No 3 times or more per year Yes I like how open it is
The colors are a bit much. I think if they were lighter/softer if would look better. These bold colors
are a bit of an eyesore.52245 More nature
4/30/2021 3:11 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes shade, areas for small children as well as bigger kids
The interactive play area--at other playgrounds, they seem to get abused/broken quickly. Also, if
there are musical bell toy things--those are kind of awful to hear and never seem pleasant.52245 not sure
4/30/2021 3:20 PM No 3 times or more per year Yes Nothing
It takes away all the common play experiences, and divides things into segments. From reading
the responses to the questions, my impression is the city will do what it wants and the invitation
for public comment is a sham.52245 Actually paying attention to the people's comments.
4/30/2021 3:35 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes N/A Too much color 52245 N/A
4/30/2021 3:54 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The book theme, the shade, the sphere, obstacle climber the tower in the middle - I was wondering can you see in to it?52333 My older kids (4th and 5th grade love rope climbing structures, the bigger the better.
4/30/2021 3:56 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
Do not like it at all and the process through which it is being justified. This is poor design and it is
sad that the City continues to push these mediocre projects through without actually taking the
time to make revision. You ask for public input, and then justify the terrible design by publishing
an FAQ that breezes over the issues brought to attention by the community. Why am I angry,
because the City installed a totally worthless playground in our cherished neighborhood park. I
(and many of my neighbors) would rather have no playground at all rather than the cheap, garish
monstrosities that are being installed. Don't you see that you are actually hindering our
community and our children by continuing this process? This is an amazing opportunity to
improve our community. Get your act together City of Iowa City.
Do not like it at all and the process through which it is being justified. This is poor design and it is
sad that the City continues to push these mediocre projects through without actually taking the
time to make revision. You ask for public input, and then justify the terrible design by publishing
an FAQ that breezes over the issues brought to attention by the community. Why am I angry,
because the City installed a totally worthless playground in our cherished neighborhood park. I
(and many of my neighbors) would rather have no playground at all rather than the cheap, garish
monstrosities that are being installed. Don't you see that you are actually hindering our
community and our children by continuing this process? This is an amazing opportunity to
improve our community. Get your act together City of Iowa City.52240
Do not like it at all and the process through which it is being justified. This is poor design and it is
sad that the City continues to push these mediocre projects through without actually taking the
time to make revision. You ask for public input, and then justify the terrible design by publishing
an FAQ that breezes over the issues brought to attention by the community. Why am I angry,
because the City installed a totally worthless playground in our cherished neighborhood park. I
(and many of my neighbors) would rather have no playground at all rather than the cheap, garish
monstrosities that are being installed. Don't you see that you are actually hindering our
community and our children by continuing this process? This is an amazing opportunity to
improve our community. Get your act together City of Iowa City.
4/30/2021 3:57 PM No Never Yes Coloful, looks attractive to children, hopfully cost-effective, safe and edcuational
Current playground is really nice; unless equipment is getting old and in need of replacement, is
the update really needed?52240 NA
4/30/2021 4:00 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
This isn’t public input. City staff has already made a decision this is pretend outreach to check a
box. Do better.
That its already been chosen. This is pretend public input. The Iowa City Staff has turned fake
public input into an art form. It’s really quite impressive.52245
I’d like it to be locally designed and built. Stop taking my tax dollars and spending them with out a
state companies.
4/30/2021 6:26 PM No 2 times or less per year Yes It’s colorful
It only meets ADA minimum requirements and it is not inclusive at all. If you are going to improve
something, make it inclusive for all!52402 Make your playground inclusive!!!
4/30/2021 11:00 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade Nothing I can think of 52246 Water play
4/30/2021 11:13 PM No 3 times or more per year Yes Nothing Everything 52246 Keep the park the same
5/1/2021 7:52 AM Yes 3 times or more per year No Nothing there was nothing wrong with what was there. , waste of money Everything 52245
How about leaving what is there, we don’t always need the newest nor top of the line things, quit
raising our taxes in Iowa city and wasting money foolishly
5/1/2021 7:56 AM Yes 2 times or less per year Yes It looks enticing for play and inclusive.
It doesn’t seem as though it will hold the attention of older children like the current structure
does.52245 Parking access.
5/1/2021 8:16 AM No 2 times or less per year Yes The shade and cookies are nice.
It doesn't seem to have very much equipment for the number of kids who use it. There doesn't
seem to be an area for younger children.52240 Equipment appropriate for younger children to use with supervision.
5/1/2021 8:35 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Not much I do not like that it will reduce the amount of actual playground.52240
Don’t waste money on something new. The current setup is great! Our 5 year old played on it for
2 hours just last night while we are at bread garden
5/1/2021 9:16 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Nothing. It's terrible. I suppose it appears to give more shade?Everything.52245
Bringing back the original playground and fountain from the late 80s, early 90s. I'm willing to
agree that it can be in modern playground building materials instead of wood, sand and metal
slides.
5/1/2021 11:03 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade
Looks easily crowded. I don't prefer structures that are based exclusively around climbing --
makes it easy to toddlers to get up and high and then feel stuck. and difficult for caregivers to help
(especially older parents or grandparents). Also unfriendly to individuals with disabilites. Wish
there were more stairs and ramps.52247 I'd love to see swings
5/1/2021 12:17 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
That it’s a playground? That some day we may be able to play on a playground again? (NB I was
born and raised in Iowa City; I can still remember what I believe was the first iteration of a play
structure in this spot from the very late 1970s or very early 1980s—it was wood, contained what
we would now see as massively dangerous gaps, and was totally inaccessible to anyone who
couldn’t climb, but these were not things I thought about at age 4 after story hour.)
I find the colors overwhelming, not only of their own accord but also in terms of the overall
downtown area. Mind you, I’m a grown up, but I’m pretty sure I would have hated them as a kid,
too. It would be hard to say how my kid or others would react, but certainly I don’t know of any
kids who were repelled by the more neutral color schemes that have inhabited that spot over the
years and aren’t quite such a sensory assault.52240
I honestly don’t know how you go about making all the people happy all of the time. I was glad to
read about the accessibility considerations in the FAQ, as they aren’t visible from the pictures (or
rather I can’t really get a sense of them from the pictures). I am grateful there will continue to be
a playground downtown as an adjunct to the library, keeping at least some semblance of
downtown as a place where kids can go and find things of interest to them in a downtown that
has changed over the years from a place for practicalities and entertainment to one that caters
almost exclusively to high end retail and nightlife.
5/1/2021 5:24 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I love it! It looks fun and well suited to younger and older children.
I thought the original playground we have now is still in good shape and don’t understand the
need to replace it.52240
Benches in the shade surrounding the playground. & the benches not separated from the
playground by the walk way like they currently are on the south side.
5/1/2021 6:50 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade No water park 52241 Add spray park
5/1/2021 7:44 PM No 3 times or more per year Yes not sure not sure 52240
Please make a ground-level large, open ship that any child could easily enter, walking, or with a
wheelchair or assistive devices. The ship could have soft pieces such as more than one anchor,
more than one helm (steering wheel), etc. Or make it a spaceship with a soft alien crew member,
a few futuristic pieces. Kids need only a few items because their imaginations will lead their play.
5/1/2021 8:01 PM No 3 times or more per year Yes Shade Want something for all ages 52245 Bigger
5/1/2021 9:42 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I like the shade structures, the book displays and the obstacle course and the sensory features
Something I like about the current structure that I do not see in the new one is the lower levels
younger kids can climb and the play houses underneath. And the towers make play so vertically
oriented. There is no sprawl in the structure everything is stacked. I would like to see more short
structures, maybe with ramps up to them for younger kids, connected with the bridges like the
current play structure has.52245
Always more trees! I know it's a priority for the new pedmall and playground to have more trees
and that makes me glad.
5/2/2021 6:14 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The play tower and the shade structure
I dislike the garish, clashing colors in the concept art. I get that it's for children, but you can have a
bright, exciting color scheme that still incorporates principles of good color theory.52240 A drinking fountain
5/2/2021 7:53 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
Shade cover, variety, colorful, includes slides, bonded rubber base, the location is great, needs an
update
Seems focused on very young children, no monkey bars, turntable toys (#7) = waste of space,
obstacles with the large plastic circles to crawl through (#2) = kids have fallen off the ones at scott
park 52240 Large playground structure for kids of variety of ages/abilities
5/2/2021 11:23 AM No 3 times or more per year Yes I think it is ugly and a large waste of money.too expensive and too much to put in the landfill from the current one.52245 make certain that the music downtown is not loud.
5/2/2021 12:21 PM No 3 times or more per year Yes
I think many interesting ideas are present but I am truly not a fan. The present playground is much
better for the kids to run along together and enjoy on the higher ground!
That it would replace the old playground! It’s low hanging toys mean that the kids will not have
the joy of running above, enjoying the action and freedom in the heights of the typical
playground. I would prefer the new idea is scrapped or changed to just refresh the current 52246
Perhaps a refresh or similar style upgrade but not this total renovation that is unnecessary and not
ideal
5/2/2021 3:45 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Big slides
Just that there aren't any monkey bars (but we understand from reading the FAQ's that there's
limited space to make it work for all ages/abilities 52245 Monkey bars
5/2/2021 9:27 PM No 3 times or more per year Yes
It will bring a renewed interest in the park which will lead to even more people coming to the
park regularly and thus leading to a better community.I do not like dislike anything.52242 A bit more space would be nice as it is quite cramped.
5/3/2021 1:02 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes NEW The colors. Make more neutral and earthy 52241 A fence or gate! Benches for parents!
5/3/2021 8:15 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
I appreciate the incorporation of shade features, which will surely make the space more usable
throughout the summer season.
I am concerned about the aggressive use of bright, primary colors in the proposed renderings. I
believe it is imperative that the park exist within the built environment of the pedestrian mall, and
not deliberately overwhelm it. The color scheme in these new renderings is almost comically
brash.52241
I earnestly hope that the Iowa City City Council will reconsider these designs. I believe the design
emphasis should preferably use the current playground's color palette (or something comparable
and equally versatile) and instead prioritize improving the actual structural features and play
surface. If it is deemed necessary to brighten the space with the selective use of color, I suggest
that a more trend durable design would identify one or two central colors as highlights.
5/3/2021 8:45 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
I like that there are many different areas for various aged children as it can be difficult to have
children under 3 play on the same structure as older kids who aren't as careful.
My kids will love the obstacle play equipment, but I am concerned after seeing this at local school
playgrounds of it holding up and being properly maintained. Many times those stepping stone
things the chains break, so please make sure you are selecting the highest quality as this is a
playground that is played with pretty hard and a lot.
I don't love the center structure, I have been downtown and it is filled with 20-50 kids this seems
like a situation where there will be a lot of lines and in some cases certain kids excluding others.
Also, as a parent that has had to go up to get my kids after they decide they are too scared to go
down a slide I'd like a structure I can easily fit into as an adult to get my kid out or slide with them.
Same concept to have multiple sized slides but something that an adult can climb up too.
I would like to see a more creative pattern on the base, perhaps a few different paths that
interconnect with fund things to do on the design? Kind of like a labyrinth path.
I'm not a huge fan of the literary display, it seems a little hard to understand what will go there so
more pictures would be helpful but I don't want just random walls put up to inhibit free play.
Regarding the colors, I love bright colors, but maybe stick to just 3 or 4 colors that look good
together?
My kids love to hang out here especially after being downtown so I love the extra bench seating
and the shade!52245 The shade would be a welcome improvement, it does get very hot in the Ped Mall.
5/3/2021 10:04 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes Shade Not inclusive enough 52246
- Fence in playground (helpful for children who "elope" or run off easily)
- More play structure opportunities for people with disabilities (e.g., wheelchair accessible
activities on the actual play equipment)
5/3/2021 10:28 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
Shade. The prism-like blocks in #7 interactive panels, but not so spread apart. Cluster them like
the photo.
I see from the FAQ that there are a great deal of limitations to additional multi-level structures on
the playground. I would like to see more vertical integration (e.g. space for younger kid play and
different ability play at a lower level) with climbing, bridges and connected play towers at an
upper level. In the current design it is three distinct horizontal zones. What if those zones were
vertical? Much of the west side zone for younger kids duplicates what is already available indoors
in the library and in a much more controlled environment which is more desirable for very young
children. This does not strike me as an effective use of limited space. Even a double play tower
like the one in the photograph would be more desirable. Also interactive panels #7 I often see
either unused or broken. The prism-like blocks seem like they could be very good, but the
manipulatable boards are borderline useless.52240 Shade. Opportunities for multi-child play.
5/3/2021 11:32 AM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes
We visit once a week along with library visits. I appreciate that there is space dedicated to
children in the pedmall.
The creativity in this design plan is very much lacking. When will we hire an artist to help creative
a beautiful, engaging play space that supports our values and love of the arts? This plan is pulled
from a catalog and that is clear in its appearance. We deserve more creativity, more thought.52240
Look into playgrounds in Northern Europe, Copenhagen, Scandinavia, etc. :
https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/family-vacations/worlds-coolest-playgrounds
These communities understand that playscapes are supposed to be creative, beautiful, and
engaging for children and adults. They promote playing with nature, and understand the effects of
nature deficit disorder. Our Americans kids are suffering from a lack of nature because we build
play structures that are sterile from the natural world. They are encouraged to tough plastic and
metal coated in plastic only. Please include plants in any plan you work out. Please add natural
materials like sand, wood, water. Add things to climb, things to hide in, stumps to hop. If we add
more sensory experiences, all children will be included. Simply adding a huge ramp to any
playground does not automatically include everyone. Kids downtown are in need of a respite to
the chaos of downtown: loud noises, visual chaos, crowds. Make this space a haven, not an added
chaos. It feels like a gaudy theme park as is. The colors are so loud. Consider natural colors or at
least a color scheme, not the unorganized rainbow. If it’s a rainbow, make it a rainbow! Consider
boundaries better so that adults can monitor kids better and kids know their boundaries better.
This can be down with the structures themselves, it does not have to be a chain link fence. We
deserve the best in our community. This is the playground to make a statement about who we are
and what we value: arts, nature, community, creativity, science. This doesn’t mean put a stack of
plastic books into the play space, it means lets support our kids development by fostering those
qualities through creative play. Maybe there’s a playhouse, maybe there’s a small reflecting pool,
maybe a colorful stacking of rectangular shapes to climb and hide under. Make it foster open,
creative play. Please do the research on Scandanavian play spaces. They are beautiful for adults to
look at, calming and engaging for kids, and foster a love of the outdoors. We can have this too!!!
5/3/2021 1:36 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I like that it will be newer and more inclusive for all children, including those with disabilities I don't like that there are less activities for children to do 52245 Taking some of this playground concept and incorporating it with the old one.
5/3/2021 1:41 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes More Shade!the price tag especially after investing in the one downtown currently not too long ago 52240
Make Iowa City summertime populace only LOL (no more loud house parties in the Carnegie, or
college age maskless bar crawls etc.) some general respect for our community from college
students would be nice.
Fewer high rises. We don't need any more places for the $$$ to go...
5/3/2021 2:06 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The shade structures
As a parent having used current playground with toddler to 9y.o., I question it being "for kids of all
ages."
While I did regard the 8' drops from W "tower" in current playground as questionable with a
toddler, no child of such a young age should be unsupervised in a multi-age structure: no harm
was ever done. Balanced with that is "achievement unlocked" by a 6y.o. learning to go down a
firewoman's pole. I feel like perceived safety has taken over - reasonable - challenges.52245
- A few more challenging structures for tweens/teens: e.g., monkey bars, pull up/chin up bar,
climbing wall (traditional or e.g., https://www.playlsi.com/4939bd/globalassets/playgrounds/seo-
filter-pages/component-types/climbers/geoplex-climber_350.jpg;
https://www.playlsi.com/en/commercial-playground-equipment/playground-components/jigjag-
climber-double/)
- A "living laboratory" on the theme of sustainability would be great to "catch them young" so to
speak re: water conservation (Could rain hitting shades be collected in clear rain barrels or
directed to adjacent planter(s), wind/solar energy (e.g., could a vertical windmill capture current
to be used for led pathway or lighting within structure - with signage explaining that) - In general,
with this and any capital project in IC, I would appreciate sustainability to be built-in with e.g.,
input from Climate Action group and other experts in town. I imagine that the rubber "ground" is
impermeable: where does water go? How about thawing snow and ice?
5/3/2021 3:00 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes The squishy surfacing. (The design is kind of a circus-like eyesore.)
How about doing something innovative and progressive: an area that actually improves the
mental wellness of kiddos along with their physical wellness. Bonus: Kids (and parents) get a
closer connection with nature while engaging and improving curiosity. Isn't that what we want in
our progressive community?
Please stop separating growing areas from play areas: integrate them for maximum effectiveness
and visitations.
Look to the "Nature Explore" natural playscape features in the inviting area on the north side of
the Robert A. Lee Rec Center: https://certified.natureexplore.org/iowa-city-parks-recreation.
Backyard Abundance is a leader in this type of design: www.backyardabundance.org
One last thought: Where do parents get some shady seating in this way-too-conventional design?52245
More plants (trees, shrubs, flower) that are native and/or edible so it feels more natural and less
like a concrete jungle.
5/3/2021 4:31 PM Yes 3 times or more per year Yes I don't like it at all.
The current playground is great for a wide range of children with many different ways to play. The
new plan looks roundly unplayable—maybe it looks nice (though frankly, it's going to look as
dated in five years) but there's no need to make this more complicated than it needs to be. The
current playground is a beloved favorite.52245
Leaving it alone. Honestly, please stop trying to improve the downtown. I'd pay a special tax just
to avoid future improvement projects. The playground is great as it is and we've been looking
forward to returning to this favorite destination after the pandemic.