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Steps for Planning a Playground Project

Writer's picture: Dana ThomasDana Thomas

Updated: 5 days ago



A well-designed playground is more than just a fun space for children—it's a place for growth, connection, and adventure. Whether you're a school administrator, park manager, or community leader, planning a playground project is an exciting yet complex undertaking. Planning out your project is the key to turning your vision into reality without unnecessary stress. Let’s explore the many benefits of initiating your playground project early. 


Steps for Planning a Playground Project 


1. Define the Purpose, Scope and Budget: Determine age group of users. Determine budget that accounts for equipment, installation, landscaping, and maintenance. Define your vision for the playground. Do you want it to be inclusive, to serve all abilities?  Determine the look and feel of your playground. Should it have a theme, look modern, traditional or nature inspired.  

2. Select a Location: Choose a location with good visibility, accessibility, and drainage. Check underground utilities to avoid conflicts during construction. 

3. Engage Stakeholders: Involve the Community and gather input from parents, children, and other stakeholders about their preferences. Work with Miracle Playsystems, a one stop shop playground company, to help with all aspects of your project.  

4. Design the Playground: Miracle Playsystems can help you to create a layout that fits the space and addresses the community's needs. We will follow safety standards such as those outlined by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and ASTM International (F1487). We will also ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) for accessibility requirements and we will pay special attention to providing inclusive play. 

5. Plan the Surface: Use materials like engineered wood fiber, rubber tiles, poured-in-place rubber, or synthetic turf. Miracle Playsystems will ensure the surfacing meets safety standards for impact attenuation. 

6. Obtain Necessary Permit: Submit plans for approval to local authorities if required. 

7. Install the Playground: Coordinate with Miracle Playsystems for installation timing, inclusive of site preparation, install equipment and surfacing.  

8. Conduct Safety Inspections: Miracle Playsystems can have a 3rd party CPSI Inspector evaluate the installation to ensure it meets safety and design standards and address any issues before opening the playground to the public. 

9. Open the Playground: Host a community event to inaugurate the playground. 

10. Maintain the Playground: Schedule regular inspections and maintenance. Repair or replace damaged equipment promptly and keep the site clean and free of hazards. 

 

Depending on the scope of your project, this process can take up to a few months or multiple years to execute, so it benefits you to start the process early- let’s explore more areas we can help with.  

 


Maximize Your Budget 

Budget constraints are often a challenge in playground projects, but starting early provides opportunities to stretch your resources. Many manufacturers and suppliers offer sales and promotions that can significantly reduce costs. Early planning also allows more time to secure funding through grants, fundraisers, or community donations. 


Using purchasing contracts is another effective way to maximize your budget. Miracle Recreation partners with Sourcewell, a government-sourcing program that simplifies the bid process and provides competitive pricing. As a General Services Administration (GSA)-approved vendor, Miracle Recreation offers special government pricing on equipment, site amenities, and surfacing products. These options allow you to meet purchasing requirements efficiently and cost-effectively. 



Miracle Recreation is proud to partner with Sourcewell. Sourcewell, (formerly known as NJPA — the National Joint Powers Alliance) is a government-sourcing program that assists public agencies with the costs of their purchased goods by pooling purchasing power. Sourcewell allows you to break through the bid process barriers with a less complicated way of meeting your purchasing needs. Sourcewell goes through the same competitive bid process, so you don’t have to, allowing you to satisfy your local bid requirements quickly and effectively. 


Miracle Recreation is proud to be a General Services Administration (GSA)-approved vendor for playground equipment, site amenities, and surfacing products. Use GSA # GS-03F-072GA to take advantage of special government pricing on Miracle Recreation products. 


Potential California Multiple Award Schedules (CMAS) contractors can access tools to search for an appropriate Federal GSA schedule that meets the requirements for a CMAS application. Not all GSA schedules are acceptable as the base for a CMAS application. 


Finally, early planning minimizes the need for expedited services for design, manufacturing, and installation, helping you avoid costly rush fees. 


Click HERE for more information on our Playground Purchasing Contracts! 

 

Start with a Needs Assessment! 



A Needs Assessment is a valuable tool to help you plan for long-term playground needs. It provides an understanding of costs, enabling you to include estimates in future budgets. This assessment is also instrumental in securing funding through grants, bonds, or community donations. Remarkably, nearly 71% of Miracle Playsystems clients who use this assessment successfully secure the funds needed to replace outdated or unsafe play structures. 



Community Engagement and Excitement 

Playgrounds are central to community life, and early planning allows for meaningful engagement. Involving community members in the decision-making process fosters a sense of ownership and pride. Regular updates, events, and sneak peeks can build excitement and anticipation. When the time comes to open the playground, a grand celebration can showcase the collective effort and dedication behind the project. 


Access to the Best Resources 

Starting your project early ensures access to the best designers, contractors, and equipment suppliers. Locking in your team early means you can choose from a wider range of designs and equipment while avoiding scheduling delays. Collaborating with experienced professionals like Miracle Playsystems helps to bring your vision to life efficiently and effectively. 


Optimal Weather Conditions 

Timing is critical in playground construction. Early planning lets you schedule installation during favorable weather conditions, reducing the risks and delays associated with extreme heat, rain, or snow. 



Stress-Free Execution 

Playground projects involve many moving parts, from fundraising to design to installation. Starting early reduces the pressure of tight deadlines, allowing you to: 


  • Make thoughtful decisions without feeling rushed. 

  • Address challenges proactively rather than reactively. 

  • Enjoy the process, knowing that everything is on track. 

 


Start Early, Reap the Rewards 

Planning your playground project early is an investment in its success. From maximizing your budget to ensuring a stress-free process, the benefits of early planning are undeniable. Taking the time to plan thoughtfully will result in a vibrant, safe, and inclusive space that your community can enjoy for years to come. 

 

Ready to get started? Contact our team today to begin planning your dream playground! 



 

 

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