CHINA GROVE — China Grove has taken steps toward purchasing a new play structure for Westhaven Park to replace one that was demolished last year.

“After the capital improvement plan, the city decided to invest $50,000 in renovating Westhaven Park,” said Parks and Recreation Director Jill Sellers at the most recent City Council meeting. China Grove.

The old play structure was dismantled in September 2023 for safety reasons.

“There were significant structural issues, where it was rusting, falling or unsafe,” Sellers said. “We have made the decision to remove it immediately.”

Sellers said the city is exploring different options for a play structure for that park.

“The GameTime company, a national company, has a grant program that I applied for in October,” Sellers said.

On Oct. 24, GameTime Recreation awarded China Grove a $24,895 grant to purchase new play equipment for the park. Cunningham Recreation, the local company that represents GameTime Recreation, developed a custom play structure that would cost $54,594.

With the grant, China Grove would receive the unit for $29,699. Shipping is $2,636 and installation is $13,950. This installation must be carried out by GameTime Recreation personnel.

In addition to purchasing and installing the unit, the safety cladding and signage would also be replaced.

All of that would fit into the $50,000 budget we were allocated,” Sellers said.

Sellers added that there is a waiting time of around 18 weeks once the unit is ordered.

“We’re looking at delivery and installation in February or March,” Sellers said. “We would immediately launch a community survey to allow the neighborhood and community to select colors and other finishing details for this structure.”

The structure is recommended for children aged 5 to 12.

“It can accommodate about 20 to 30 kids at a time, which is perfect for the small neighborhood it serves,” Sellers said.

The decision to approve the purchase of the playground was made unanimously.