GILBERT PARK'S PLAYGROUND READIES FOR OPENING DAY IN MOUNT DORA

The childhood treasure of Mount Dora will soon be re-opening.  After a 3-month renovation, the Gilbert Park playground will put smiles on kids’ and parents’ faces again beginning on January 26.  

In addition to a modern, two-tier pirate ship that replaced the aging wooden castle, the newly mulched playground also features equipment with large, rustic timber frames that include new swings, a rope climbing web and balance beams.  (See video below)  

Related:  More information on Gilbert Park's  new pirate ship

For children’s safety, the city improved lines of sight for caregivers to watch their children, and also added a new four-foot metal fence around the perimeter of the play area. Picnic tables will now be included inside the fenced area, so families can safely enjoy picnics while the children run back and forth to the play equipment.

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The renovated playground was designed and built by Kompan, a Texas-based company.  The $263,000 price tag for renovations and equipment was funded by the Parks Impact Fee Fund.

​The old play fort was was built by the community almost 30 years ago and was demolished in late September.  The smaller, plastic fort for toddlers remained.  The new playground was originally expected to reopen by the end of October, but was delayed due to a missing part.   

Opening day will begin with a public ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10 a.m.    Gilbert Park playground is located at 310 South Tremain Street in Mount Dora. ​​

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