In 2019, we learned that the beloved play structure at Meadowbrook Park was going to be replaced. Although I understand the reasoning — the wood is hard to maintain and it’s not accessible — there will still be some mourning. The pandemic pushed the project down the road a bit, but it’s now on track to be dismantled next winter, with new construction beginning in 2024. The Urbana Park District will now have some financial help thanks to a Open Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) grant from the State of Illinois. They will receive $550,000 to help rebuild the playground.
This spring, summer, and fall is your opportunity to experience the playground as it is! As sad as I am to see it go, I’m excited to see what they will come up with.