New Play Structure Coming Soon to Daphne Park

Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA) is purchasing new playground equipment to replace the current structure at Daphne Park.

The park project will likely begin in the fall, and construction is expected to last about one month. Neighbors will be notified ahead of assembly.

IHCA secured a triple tower structure from KOMPAN, the world’s number one supplier of innovative playground equipment. A representative from KOMPAN already conducted a site visit to identify which play structures would fit in the existing footprint of the Daphne Park play area.

The current play equipment is a tot lot, which is intended for ages 2-6. Meanwhile, the new structure is larger, taller and intended for all ages. It will also offer a variety of features such as hand eye coordination, tactile stimulation, a climber, hammock, two slides, walking bridge, climbing poles and balance bars.

The existing swing set will stay, but it will be removed during the renovation and powder coated with a paint color to match the new structure.

Playground equipment was not exempt from supply and shipping issues brought on by the pandemic. Fortunately, the structure is already located in the United States and ships in a relatively faster pace than from overseas.

Total project costs are estimated at $79,325. This includes removal of the old structure, instillation of new equipment, park landscaping upgrades, benches and signage.

IHCA Board of Directors and the Finance Committee will vote on this project in August. The project is funded by the master reserve fund as part of IHCA’s five-year playground/park upgrades.

Other factors to consider ahead of implementing the new structure include city permit requirements, state regulations and national safety playground standards. The cost of materials, shipping and labor can also impact efforts at this time.