City officials say the new structures will be built in safer locations to reduce the risk of future flood damage. Denise Chaplick, assistant director of Park Planning and Development, said the updated designs will reflect modern standards.
"There are several main features that we integrate into today's playgrounds," she said. "Safety, accessibility, shade. All of those are very important in today's designs."
At River Forest Park, resident Adriana Camacho said the upgrades could make a meaningful difference for families.
"The area, the landscape is perfect, and that would be phenomenal for the city," she said. Camacho added that she hopes the new playgrounds will be more accessible.
"That would mean accessibility for both my kids, especially walking in this area," she said. "I would want to see a playground that's fenced and inclusive for all abilities."
Construction on the three new playgrounds is expected to begin in late summer or early fall, with completion targeted within about six months.
Why are 5 playgrounds closed?
The improvements come as five Durham parks remain closed because of lead contamination concerns.
Some of those playgrounds have been shut down for more than three years. Chaplick said progress has been slow but steady.
"Unfortunately, it's moving at a slower pace than we would like, but we do see progress coming forward," she said.
As of May 2026, the final phase of testing is nearly complete, and a summary report is expected in July.
"Once we finalize the testing, we can get a game plan of what are some options that we can implement," Chaplick said.
State officials estimate cleanup across the five parks could cost more than $24 million. The city has identified $12 million in available funding but has not yet secured additional sources.
Park users say they are eager for movement.
At Northgate Park, Jennifer DePrima said the closures have limited how residents use the space.
"It's a shame because people do like to have their cookouts and their parties. There's all the little barbecue grills and picnic tables around here," she said.
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