New Playground Planned for Kiwanis Park in Lake Wales
by James Coulter
Big flowers to hop across like stepping stones. A rope net to climb like a spider. A spinning tire swing that whirls like a carousel. And beneath it all, a soft play surface made from recycled plastic.
These are just a few of the nature‑inspired features planned for the new playground coming to Kiwanis Park in Lake Wales.
During their work session on Wed., Sept. 17, 2026, Lake Wales city commissioners reviewed two items tied to the project.
The first item authorizes the demolition of the existing playground and site preparation, and the other approves the purchase and installation of new equipment.
The demolition and prep work is estimated at $160,000, while the new equipment will cost $692,000, bringing the total project cost to roughly $852,000.
The current playground has reached the end of its useful life and will be removed to make way for a fully ADA‑accessible play area and additional park amenities, according to Parks and Recreation Director Stephanie‑Grace Lutton.
The new playground was designed in partnership with GameTime and Catalyst Design, with an aesthetic meant to complement both Kiwanis Park’s long‑term vision and the city’s “City in a Garden” identity.
Lutton said the design team focused on two priorities from the outset: accessibility for all abilities and a nature‑themed look and feel.
“We went into the first meeting with two things in mind: it needs to be for all abilities, and we wanted the ‘City in a Garden’ nature feel,” Lutton said. “I believe we have done well with that.”
Nature‑inspired elements include a spider‑web climbing net, a tree‑like climbing structure, flower‑petal stepping stools, three slides, and a unique spinning tire swing.
The playground is one component of a larger expansion and renovation of Kiwanis Park, which currently features a play area, restrooms, two picnic pavilions, a baseball field and a skate park.
The renovations were prompted by the activation of a grant‑funded loop trail that will encircle the park. Once complete, the park will include the new playground, a new restroom facility, and smaller picnic pavilions, reducing overall seating capacity but expanding open green space.
Although the sports fields will be removed, Lutton assured commissioners that the redesigned park and trail will offer flexible space for a wide range of activities.
Design plans also reserve space for a future splash pad, an amenity residents have frequently requested. Lutton said staff is actively exploring options to incorporate one into the park.
