On Oct. 20, the Edina City Council approved the purchase of playground equipment for the new nature play area at Fred Richards Park (4400 Parklawn Ave.). The playground will blend traditional inclusive play with nature play, with activities designed to engage all the senses and welcome children of different ages and abilities. Construction is expected to begin in 2027 as part of the larger Fred Richards Park Implementation Project.

The playground design was created by Confluence with input from a community survey and a special playground accessibility workgroup made up of community members and inclusive play advocates, who helped set goals and review designs. Midwest Playscapes will provide the playground equipment. Thank you to everyone who participated and shared their ideas!

The new nature play area includes:

• Accessible components that encourage both physical and social play
• Play opportunities that engage all the senses

The playground will sit within the heart of the park, alongside basketball courts, pickleball courts, a sledding hill, open gathering spaces and seating areas, all surrounded by native trees. A new trail network and a new parking lot and entrance off 77th Street will make the park easy to reach by car, bike or on foot.

Construction on the park began in August and will continue through 2027. The playground will be installed in coordination with site features. Work will include, footings and foundations, seating areas, accessible pathways, fencing, safety surfacing, and playground components provided by Midwest Playscapes.