Wrangell’s Parks Department is overhauling its outdoor play spaces, pivoting from three aging sites to two modern, well-maintained sites.
The shift comes as decades of Southeast Alaska weather and deferred maintenance have taken a toll on recreational facilities. Director Lucy Robinson explained that the department is dismantling outdated structures — starting with the full removal of City Park’s playground — while stripping back unsafe components at the Kyle Angerman Playground and Shoemaker Park.
The overall strategy focuses resources on two improved playgrounds rather than spreading maintenance dollars too thin.
The former playground space at City Park is proposed to be transformed into a memorial for veterans featuring the Freedom Rock, while future playground equipment upgrades will target Angerman and Shoemaker Park.
At Angerman, plans call for fresh play equipment, updated seating, new fencing and a restored basketball court.
Robinson said she is hopeful there will be at least one new playground by summer 2027.
Assembly members last week expressed strong support for moving forward with improving playgrounds. Assembly Member Bob Dalrymple gave full backing to rehabbing the Angerman Playground, while emphasizing that snow storage must end at the site.
“The only thing I have strong feelings about” is to no longer use the playground areas as a snow dump, Dalrymple said. “It is just not appropriate to have that dual use.”
Villarma said he and the public works director would explore alternative snow storage locations.
