City of Savannah: Official News, Events & Community Updates
- Drainage underperformance caused ponding at Daffin Park; opening delayed to protect families, visitors, and guests.
- Capital Projects began installing drainage pipe Oct. 6; project manager Ashley Sullivan, oversight by Recreation & Leisure Services interim director Ricky Allison.
- Remaining steps: drainage/site restoration by Oct. 19, termite treatment by Oct. 21, final field inspection by Oct. 22 before operational readiness.
Daffin Park Signature Playground Opening Date to be Announced as Completion of Corrective Drainage Work, Repairs Nears
The much-anticipated, new ADA-compliant inclusive play space located in the northwest corner of Daffin Park is currently undergoing drainage pipe installation. The city will announce an opening date once the restorative work is completed, and the site passes final inspection.
Why the DELAY:
After initial construction, the playground’s drainage functionality was underperforming. Ponding began on site. In adherence to all necessary safety precautions, and in the interest of the safety and well-being of all families, visitors, and guests of the playground, the City delayed officially opening the site to the public until repairs are completed.
What is happening NOW:
On Oct. 6, the City’s Capital Projects team, led by project manager Ashley Sullivan, began installing drainage pipe and restoring the site to the correct grade. The City’s Recreation & Leisure Services department, under the leadership of interim director Ricky Allison, is working to ensure work is completed properly as well as verifying the park is fully operational prior to opening.
What is NEW:
Remaining construction efforts will be completed in the following order:
- Drainage improvements, site restoration are expected to be completed by Oct. 19, weather and proper drainage permitted
- Termite treatment is expected to be completed by Oct. 21, after site work is finished
- Final field inspection is expected by Oct. 22, upon completion of drainage work and restoration of site
- Recreation & Leisure will replace much, complete fence construction; Facilities will clean and stock on-site restrooms
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Operational readiness is declared once staffing, maintenance, and signage are in place and site is cleared and confirmed safe for the public
What to expect NEXT:
The city will confirm the opening date after construction ends, and final inspection is passed. A ribbon-cutting/grand opening event will follow.
“The city is excited to open its first signature playground at Daffin Park, a space designed for all abilities so every Savannah family may play together for years to come,” said Community Services chief, Ashley Reynolds Marshall. “We will announce an opening date in November, once the site has passed its final inspection and is ready for fun and laughter!”
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ABOUT DAFFIN PARK SIGNATURE PLAYGROUND
In 2021, Savannah City Council approved the Recreation Reimagined initiative to create and expand high-quality recreation facilities and experiences for residents. Since then, the city has invested more than $4 million in recreation infrastructure upgrades citywide. The Daffin Park Signature Playground, situated in the northwest corner of the park, was designed to serve children ages 2-12, is fully ADA-compliant, and includes new amenities, splashpad, and multiple fun zones for all to enjoy.
Read the full announcement on the official site
