TimberTown
A COMMUNITY ICON... IN NEED OF A LITTLE HELP FROM ITS FRIENDS
Now over 25 years old, this beloved play structure needs some serious TLC -- splinters, missing pieces, broken parts, faded paint, and so much more. Read on.
Donations are processed by Huron Waterloo Pathways Initiative, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that facilitates trail development and use in Washtenaw County
A community survey taken in Fall 2022 found that some of the issues were decaying wood/splinters, broken play elements, sagging bridges, frayed rope, parental sight lines, and general maintenance, such as the need for more sand, painting, insect control, etc. A site review by Play By Design - a company with deep familiarity with these 1990 era structures also found safety issues that need correction.
Issues
Solutions
The City of Chelsea Parks & Recreation Commission created a sub-committee made up of community members and city staff to look at how to reimagine TimberTown, based on feedback from the community. In March 2023, the committee met with Lee Archin, founder of Play by Design, who was involved in helping communities across the country construct "Timbertowns" in the 1990s. In other words, PBD, an Ithaca, NY, based play company knows our Timbertown.
His review found that the 5-12 year-old area is in fairly good shape, but in need of some repair and significant enhancements, with "sight lines" being a primary concern. The area designed for toddlers is in very poor condition and needs a major overhaul.
To that end, TimberTown will be reimagined in three phases, working with Play by Design, City staff, and community members:
1. Get community feedback on designs for a fun and safe TimberTown designs from PBD, allowing the playground to serve Chelsea for another 10+ years.
2. Raise the dollars through fundraising and grants to reimagine TimberTown.
3. Hold community work bee to get the job done! And then, hold a grand-reopening!