A recently renovated playground in North Phoenix has breathed new life into a local park. The playground was finished earlier this year after the previous one was torn down due to concerns about safety. The old playsets, faded magentas, and seafoam greens were accompanied by hazard signs and safety tape marking some areas as unsafe for children to play.  Now parents can enjoy a more up-to-date experience for their children, including new accessible options for disabled children. An interesting change from the previous playground is the addition of woodchips rather than traditional sand, presumable in an effort to have a safer experience for the children who play there, not to mention less sand tracked back home. 

Of note is the vacant sand pit left in the wake of the renovation. The old playground was split up into two separate areas ringed by a sidewalk: one for older children and one geared for toddlers. Now, though, both playgrounds are located within the same sidewalk ring, leaving the other mostly vacant, leaving a large sand pit behind where someone recently moved a picnic table. This leaves a noticeable empty space, though one that could be argued for as another free-play area for children

Parents seem not to notice, however, as at the time of writing several families were gathered and enjoying the playground in the cooling fall weather at the park. Those wishing to visit the park themselves can find Werner’s Field Park at the intersection of 7th Street and Grovers Ave. Along with the playground, the park includes covered areas for picnics, a basketball court, and a large field where events are regularly held. Those who are interested are encouraged to visit to experience the new park amenities, especially with fall fully in swing. As with all public areas, please be conscientious of others and pick up after yourself.