The Playground Committee at Doudna Elementary is currently raising money to purchase new equipment for the school playground.

The existing playground has provided a fun place for area children for almost 25 years, but the current equipment is quickly nearing the end of its lifecycle. It is breaking down and replacement parts are no longer available. As a result, it is becoming a safety concern for the nearly 400 students it serves each year. The playground also acts as the gathering area for children and families on the south side of the community.  

The committee is trying to raise $75,000 to purchase and install new equipment. To date, approximately $18,000 has been raised toward the costs of new equipment. The school has already received generous donations from Schreiber Foods, WCCU, the Family Thrift Shop, and private citizens. Grants have been written to procure funding and families are helping with fundraisers that will hopefully raise another $4,000 to $5,000 for this project.  

This project will be completed in three phases. The current quote for Phase 1 is $30,000 which can be installed during the summer of 2016. Phase 2 will cost $22,300 and Phase 3 will cost $20,300. The committee was advised to expect a 3 to 5% increase in the cost of equipment in 2016.      

If you would like to donate to the project, contributions may be made directly to the Doudna Playground Fund at Doudna Elementary, 1990 Bohmann Drive, Richland Center, or online at www.gofundme.com/doudnaplayground.