The nature playground in Kiwanis Central park was officially opened in early August. (Photo Courtesy Ross Lavigne)

By Chris Brown

In Kiwanis Central Park

Excitement before and after opening of new nature playground

Aug 25, 2021 | 3:30 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – More than two years in the making, the nature playground in Kiwanis Central Park is an early hit with the neighbourhood.

“It’s always packed and people were waiting for this to open,” says Emma Bennett, parent and board member of the South East Hill Neighbourhood Association. “When the fence was up everybody was coming to check when is the park going to open. Everyone’s been really excited.”

The nature playground features a tree trunk and rope climbing structure, seating areas made from logs and the ground is covered by wood chips.

The playground is a partnership between the City of Medicine Hat, the Kiwanis Club of Medicine Hat and the Medicine Hat Early Childhood Coalition. It was officially opened earlier this month.

IN THE COMMUNITY

Medicine Hat's Mustard Seed adding new shelter spaces at Alberta government's request

2h ago

HOLIDAYS

Medicine Hat Kiwanis hosting Christmas dinner, applications due Friday

5h ago

IN THE COMMUNITY

'Compassionate Friends' offer peer support for bereaved in Medicine Hat

20h ago

Bennett says she and her kids are there almost every day and is glad to have something besides the traditional metal play structure.

“It’s so nice to have a different style of playground for the kids to play on,” she says. “They’re really drawn to climbing on logs or climbing on trees when we’re out and now they can come and do this in the playground.”

Kiwanis Central Park was already a standout in Medicine Hat and the nature playground is another great addition, Bennett adds.

She says the park is busy throughout the day with different activities for different age groups.

“It’s really great to have it here on the hill. There’s been so many improvements whenever I walk by,” she says. “The basketball court has been upgraded and every night when I walk by I see people here playing basketball or frisbee golf. There’s always some here playing frisbee golf. The waterpark is really well used. It’s really great.”