<\/p>\n
Momentum for the final build-out of the new playground at Joe Rowell Park is gaining speed.<\/p>\n
A kickoff meeting for construction and fundraising plans will be held from 3 to 6 p.m. Jan. 26 at the Dolores Community Center.<\/p>\n
The contractor, Play by Design, will give a presentation of the playground\u2019s final design, with community feedback. Parents, children and all interested residents are invited. Snacks will be provided.<\/p>\n
Construction is planned for June and will be a \u201ccommunity build\u201d over six days with volunteers working with the contractor.<\/p>\n
More than 100 volunteers are needed, said Kalin Grigg, Dolores Parks Committee member. Locations where volunteers can sign up will be announced soon.<\/p>\n
The town has committed to a full playground on the previous 9,500-square-foot site. The total estimated cost is $280,000.<\/p>\n
The playground has two components:<\/p>\n
The town was awarded a KaBoom! grant for $80,000 worth of equipment for toddlers and children 2-5 years old. That will be installed in a 2,500-square-foot area.<\/em>Play by Design was chosen to install the equipment for ages 5-12 on 7,000 square feet. Both companies are integrating their plans into a cohesive design, Grigg said.<\/em>The town has budgeted $91,000 and has applied for a $173,000 Great Outdoors Colorado grant for the project. Notification will be in March.<\/p>\n Community fundraising for $50,000 is ongoing by the Dolores Playground Group, and at least $16,000 has been raised.<\/p>\n