EPHRATA — Residents of Ephrata can look forward to changes at Lions Park as the local Parks and Recreation Department prepares to renovate the playground with a new structure aimed at enhancing recreation opportunities for children of various age groups.  

Josh Johnson, the Parks and Recreation Director, announced a budget of nearly $118,000 for the new playground equipment, with a significant portion funded through park impact fees. 

Lions Park, known as one of the busiest parks in Ephrata, according to Johnson, currently features a playground structure that has not been updated in nearly two decades.  

The existing playground primarily serves toddlers aged two to five, leaving older children without adequate play options.  

“It’s a lot of kids that go down there, either toddlers or kids aged five to twelve. The current structure isn’t geared towards the older demographic, which is a big group of kids that frequent the park,” Johnson said. 

In response to this need, the Parks and Recreation Department reached out to various playground companies to gather quotes and design concepts.  

“We wanted to ensure that we had equipment that would cater to all age ranges,” Johnson said.  

The new playground will feature a large structure designed for children ages five to twelve, complete with diverse play functions and features.  

Additionally, a separate play area will be created specifically for younger toddlers aged six months to twenty-three months, ensuring a safe and engaging environment for all. 

The funding for the new playground equipment was part of a structured budget put forth during the city’s budgeting process earlier this year, with the Ephrata City Council granting approval for the project.  

“We budgeted $70,000 for this renovation, and the remaining balance of $47,569.74 will be sourced from park impact fees,” Johnson clarified.  

Park impact fees are charged to developers who acquire land in Ephrata, which are then allocated for park development and upgrades.  

“For example, if a developer builds on forty lots, they contribute a fee, which can be used to enhance our city’s parks or they can donate space for a city park,” Johnson said. 

Community members are eager for the new additions, which aim to provide a variety of play options, exceeding the limited amenities currently present.  

“I think people are going to realize that there’s a lot more for kids to do at the park. Instead of just using swings or outdated equipment that has been there for 15 to 20 years, families will have access to a modern playground that encourages a wider range of play,” Johnson said. 

Construction is set to begin in the coming months, with an estimated completion date of late fall, approximately six to seven weeks from now.  

While the new equipment is being installed, portions, if not the entirety, of the park will have to be closed for safety reasons.  

“Public Works will need to close the park to ensure that everything is safely put in place,” Johnson said.  

The specific timeline will be posted on the city’s social media platforms to keep residents informed.  

“We’re committed to communicating updates to the community, including any closures that will be necessary during the construction period,” he said. 

In addition to the new playground installation, the old playground equipment will also undergo changes. Johnson explained that elements of the existing structure would remain, particularly the sections geared towards younger children, while other parts would be removed.  

“We’re keeping the playground structure that has the slide and monkey bars for the 2- to 5-year-olds. We’re also reducing the number of swings to make room for the new equipment,” he said. “This is an opportunity for us to create a space that works for all children, rather than a select few.” 

Johnson encourages community members to stay tuned for further updates regarding the installation of new playground equipment and how their playground spaces will transform to better accommodate Ephrata’s youth. As the renovations draw closer, Johnson expressed optimism about the project’s positive impact on the community.  

“I believe this will be a wonderful addition to Lions Park, making it a go-to destination for families in Ephrata,” he said. 

    New playground equipment is being installed at Lions Park this fall. Public Works Director Josh Johnson said the city's goal was to make the space more accessible to children of all ages.