Three elementary schools will get new playground equipment and other improvements this year. Work on the Northeast Tacoma and Fern Hill playgrounds is happening now, and work at Stanley will start once materials arrive.

Once complete, they will join Franklin, Madison, Blix, Whittier, Lister, Crescent Heights, Edison, McKinley, McCarver, Sherman and Wainwright on the list of playgrounds upgraded with funds from the 2020 voter-approved bond to support neighborhood schools.

Newly constructed schools Skyline and Downing, also got new playgrounds with their new building, as will Fawcett and Bryant, which are in the works.

Additional community projects provide new playgrounds

As part of the Community School Yard program, Reed, Stafford, Mann, Larchmont and Whitman elementary schools will also receive new playgrounds.

The new play structures focus on children and learning with the emphasis of structures lasting for years. ADA compliance and special needs are a focal point in new play areas along with perimeter fencing that secures the site. Most playgrounds last approximately 20 years with proper maintenance and surface testing. Our 2020 bond addressed 12 sites older than 20 years old that needed replacement.

With the approval of the 2020 capital bond, the district continues to invest in what is working for Tacoma kids with needed school improvements that provide safe and challenging learning environments. That work includes safety and security replacements, pools, roof, heating ventilation and air condition system improvements, and athletic field upgrades throughout Tacoma.