Following storm damage caused by the July derecho, the City of Orange City is moving forward with replacing the main playground structure at Windmill Park.
City officials say the severe storm caused extensive damage to the playground when falling trees and large branches struck the equipment. After the storm, a certified playground inspector was brought in to assess the structure and determine whether repairs were possible.
Parks and Recreation Director Noah Minnick states that the inspection revealed the equipment could no longer be safely used and did not meet current safety standards. The inspector outlined options for either restoring the playground to code or replacing it entirely.
Due to the extent of the damage and the age of the existing structure, Minnick says the City collaborated with its insurance provider to determine the next steps. Insurance ultimately approved funding to replace the playground equipment rather than attempt repairs.
The Orange City Council later approved the replacement option and authorized the purchase of a new playground structure from Boland Recreation, which will also handle the installation. The total cost of the new equipment is approximately $100,000.
The old playground equipment has now been removed, and the new structure has been ordered. Installation is planned for this spring.
Minnick says the new playground will feature updated equipment and expanded play opportunities designed for children and families of all ages. Once installed, it will provide a refreshed, safer, and more engaging play space for the community at Windmill Park.
