There are many features to add to Rugby’s newest park, but from a child’s perspective, it’s already finished.

A large playground has been installed at the east side park along 6th St. S.E. and is now ready for use.

“We’re appreciative of the support in getting the playground put together (May 13-15)..it really went well,’ said Tonia Dosch, president of the Rugby Jaycees, which was instrumental in raising funds to develop the park.

Vocational agriculture students from Rugby High School as well as members of the track team and the Rugby Fire Department volunteered their time to install of about $90,000 in playground equipment.

Dave Walker and some of his landscaping crew provided their expertise in assisting workers from Midwest Playscapes of Chaska, Minn., which supplied the equipment.

The playground features two large stations, Dosh said. One is geared for ages two to five while the other is for ages five to 12. It has a series of slides, bridges, bouncers and tunnels and a rock-looking climbing wall. “It’s designed to serve up to 112 kids at one time,’ she said.

The equipment was off limits to children for about a week until wood chips arrived and could be spread out inside the plastic border around the play area.

Other features to come

The Jaycees, which has partnered with the Rugby Park District in the project, wants to add more features to the park, including a picnic shelter and restrooms.

Dosch said the Jaycees will likely have to continue fundraising to add those amenities, but of course, donations to the project are always welcome.

The park board is also considering expanding a segment of

the nearby walking path to reach the park. Trees will also be planted..

Dosch said park users are asked to park their vehicles to the south and west of the playground. Property to the east and north is private.

Given the playground’s proximity to a slough/wetland area, prime breeding ground for mosquitors, the city is planning to spray for mosquitos regularly.