TIFTON — Tifton City Council began considering plans to better their recreation spaces with new playground equipment.

Crystal Gaillard, planning and zoning director, requested the authorization of a funding application to be submitted to the Land and Water Conservation Fund at the council’s May 1 meeting.

Gaillard said the Georgia Department of Natural Resources provides grants through the fund in question as a way of incentivizing local governments to utilize, preserve and improve their recreation areas. 

Through this grant, Gaillard said she hopes to replace the plastic playground equipment at Fulwood Park, which was becoming too difficult to maintain, with a more inclusive set to accommodate children with disabilities.

New features include a rubber-tile surface for ease of wheelchair and crutches access, as well as easy maintenance, sensory play equipment for children with sensory or learning disabilities and a new swing set with tandem and full support swings.

Gaillard reported the cost of the project would amount to about $500,000, with the city providing half to obtain the same amount from the conservation fund. The expense would be taken out of next year’s budget.

The planning and zoning director said she had sent out a request for proposal on project plans for the playground, asking for themed playground equipment in the designs. These applications would be due May 19.

The city would be required to submit a pre-application by the end of May in order to be considered for eligibility. Should the city’s pre-application be approved, another application would be due in February of next year.