Dear Editor,
A recent article in the Western Wheel stated the Town is removing the playground structures in Howard Park in Woodhaven and building a skateboard park. The playground structures are not slated to be replaced.
Howard Park needs a playground. The current playground is used by families, youth and children of all ages. It provides free, unstructured playtime and requires no special skills or equipment to enjoy it.
It is used year-round by local and out of town residents, be it in the heat of the summer, after school, during the day, and by siblings of players during soccer and baseball games. It is centrally located within large green spaces, soccer fields and baseball diamonds. There is plenty of space to incorporate new playground structures.
In the last 40 years, the playground has been in three different locations within Howard Park and has provided hours and hours of physical activity opportunities for many, many children.
Considering the growth and demographics of Okotoks, it doesn't make sense to eliminate a playground structure in such a high use location.
Diny Woyiwada
Okotoks
