Windsor council to consider $16 million plan to replace 36 aging playgrounds

Windsor city council is being asked by city staff to approve a plan to replace old playground equipment.

Windsor city council will consider a multi-million-dollar plan to replace 36 aging playgrounds across the city as part of its long-term capital program.

A report from Windsor’s parks department says the identified playgrounds have reached the end of their useful life based on regular inspections, condition assessments and third-party audits.

The replacements are part of the city’s approved inventory of 125 playground units, which are maintained and renewed as they age out.

The total estimated cost of the project is $16,266,000.

About $13.25 million would go toward construction and installation, with the remaining funds covering project management, financing, contingency and other related costs.

Funding has already been identified in the city’s approved 10-year capital budget, but council approval is required to pre-commit funds from 2027 through 2030.

Administration says moving forward now will help avoid service gaps in neighbourhoods where aging equipment could fail inspection and require removal before a new playground is built. The city aims to construct new units before decommissioning existing ones where space allows.

If approved, public consultations would begin this spring, followed by design work and requests for proposals later in 2026.

Site work is expected to begin by late 2026, with most installations taking place in 2027 and final removals of old equipment completed by early 2028.

The new playgrounds will be AODA-accessible and incorporate updated safety standards, shade features and tree plantings to address rising temperatures.

The project also includes the planned Lanspeary “Super Playground,” part of the broader Lanspeary Park Master Plan.

According to city administration, 87 of the Windsor’s125 playground units have been replaced, with the remaining sites scheduled as they reach the end of their life cycle.

Windsor city council will hold its next meeting on Feb. 23.