New Emerald Park Playground Swings Into Design Phase

Community Input Invited On Desired Features & Functionality During Open Houses

Steamboat Springs, Colorado-March 6, 2025-Slide, climb, swing, tumble, ponder, skip and run your way to be a part of the envisioning process for the new Emerald Park Playground as the city embarks on the design and construction of a new playground space in this popular park.

“As we know, playgrounds are hands-on spaces that promote physical activity, improve motor skills, spark learning, develop social interaction and serve as gathering spot for the community across generations,” said Deputy Parks & Recreation Director-Land Management Stephanie Munro. “We want the new space to be something everyone enjoys and are seeking your involvement in the process.”

This project will be the largest playground replacement to date and includes site improvements, wayfinding, and new amenities to enhance the overall play experience. The area will move beyond the existing playground footprint, introducing additional play features, seating spaces, shade structures, and upgraded site amenities to enhance the overall experience.

As part of the process, two open houses are currently planned to gather input and feedback on the project. Open houses are scheduled from 5pm to 6:30pm on March 19 and April 30 at the Howelsen Ice Arena community room. Designs will be finalized over the summer with construction scheduled to begin this fall and completion anticipated for the 2026 summer.

Concepts will look to blend three elements: destination play (whimsical, creative play environments to spark multi-generational play), discovery landscapes (innovative play and learning spaces) and irrigation design (water conservation and ease of maintenance) into the overall project.

The current playground, installed mostly in-house in 1999 with financial support from Great Outdoors Colorado, has significantly outlived its lifespan. The new space will be a modern, inclusive, and dynamic site for all age groups and abilities. The existing boulders will be integrated into the design and surrounding site improvements. In addition, new wayfinding will improve navigation at Emerald Park, making it easier to find amenities, sport fields, the botanic park and core trail.

The city is teaming with Design Concepts, an award-winning landscape architectural planning and design firm founded in 1981. This Colorado-based firm creates places that strengthen and foster communities behind a belief that excellence in design of outdoor spaces creates community, improves public health, and naturally preserves and enhances environments.

-WeServeTheCity-

Contact
Stephanie Munro, Deputy Parks and Recreation Director – Land Management, 970-871-7011 or email
Emily Hines, Marketing & Communications Supervisor, 970-871-7031 or email