Worn Rubberized Surfaces Prompt Partial Park Closure

Portions of the popular playground at Hilo’s Lincoln Park have been temporarily closed because of wear to the rubberized surface under some playground equipment.

Maintenance staff for the county Department of Parks and Recreation determined that fall zones in some areas of the Dr. Ruth E. Oda Playground were unsafe because of the weakened surfaces, said P&R spokesman Jason Armstrong.

The areas were cordoned off last week as P&R workers prepare to undergo specialized training to make the repairs. County officials determined that having the repairs done in-house will be less costly than hiring a private contractor to do the work, Armstrong said.

It is not clear how long the equipment will be closed. In the meantime, parents are encouraged to use the playground at the nearby Keikiland, at Hilo’s Mohouli Park or to visit the new playground at the free Pana‘ewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens.

The other portions of Lincoln Park remain open for park users including the keiki swing sets and pull-up bar. The park located on Kinoole Street also features pavilions, picnic tables, a grassy area and restrooms.