18 IslandVibesIOP.com After the rec center staff examined the playground recently, which displayed rust, old brackets and natural wear and tear from the salty sea breeze, they decided it was time for a complete makeover. The renovation, which cost $488,092.46, covered the three main play structures and the updated surfacing. These three play structures included the toddler house, a spider web and a big toy. Constructed in the late 1990s, the rec center playground was initially a sand playground surrounded by a chain-link fence, but it has evolved and expanded over the years. The toddler house, installed in 1998, was replaced with a new version featuring a butterfly climber with flower petals. Originally installed in 2003, the big toy was also replaced with a tall new structure. The spider web, installed in 2006, was subsequently replaced by a new rope climber and slide piece. IOP city paid for the project with funds received through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), which covered the entire cost of the renovations. “The city had ARPA Funds that needed to be used, and the council voted to use those funds to cover the playground project,” explained IOP Recreation Director Karrie Ferrell. The grand opening of the playground took place on Thursday, May 15, so it is ready just in time for the summer when school officially lets out. Rec center playground renovation completed for summer break By Maurice J. Frazier COMMUNITY IOP Beach Run ready to race on July 19 Provided The 2025 Isle of Palms Beach Run will take place Saturday, July 19, on Front Beach behind the Windjammer on the Isle of Palms. Competitors can enter in the following divisions: 5K Run/Walk or 10K Run. The race begins at 8 a.m. Youth Fun Runs start at 8:30 a.m. The registration fee is $30-$40 for the 5K Run/ Walk or 10K Run and $10 for the Youth Fun Runs. Registration will also be open at 7 a.m. the day of the race, cash or check only. Registered race participants will receive a free moisture-wicking T-shirt. Race sponsors include the Windjammer, Acme Lowcountry Kitchen, Papi’s Taqueria, Barrier Island Eco Tours, The Foot Store, Play It Again Sports, Spine Pain Center, Harris Teeter, TCBY, HOTWORX, Powerade and Queen City Timing. Register at www.raceroster.com or at the Isle of Palms Recreation Department, #24 28th Ave., or call 843-8868294 for more information. Warming up for the beach run! Photo Provided By IOP Rec
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