(Lawrenceville, Ga., Dec. 15, 2009) - Three old playgrounds at Bogan Park will be replaced with new equipment and new safety surfaces over the coming months. Upgrades will include an improved retaining wall, better drainage, shade canopies and benches.

Commissioners awarded a contract for almost $270,000 to PlayCore Wisconsin, Inc., dba GameTime/Dominica Recreation of Longwood, FL. The money to pay for it will come from SPLOST. "This is a much-needed improvement and the funds were already designated for it through the 2005 SPLOST program," said District 4 Commissioner Kevin Kenerly.

All three playgrounds will be ADA-accessible with engineered wood fiber surfacing and concrete ramps that attach to the surfaces similar to a boat ramp in a lake. The new equipment will feature several activity panels, drums and a hand cycler. Bridges, climbers and slides will also accessible from transfer platforms for children who are able to pull themselves out of a wheelchair and onto the playground deck.

Work will be phased so that one playground will always remain open, with all three playground renovations complete by spring 2010.

The 83-acre Bogan Park, at 2733 North Bogan Road near Buford, features an indoor aquatic center, double gym, ball fields and two miles of trails. Gwinnett County parks were named best in the nation last year by the National Recreation and Park Association.