At council direction, staff has researched options for replacing the existing deteriorating playground at Memorial Park. The park is archaeologically and culturally significant to the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community, and in recent discussions, the SMSC has expressed concern over any type of playground in the park. 

The Parks, Trails and Recreation Master Plan calls for replacing the existing playground with a nature play area in the western portion of the park near the shelter closest to the pond. The Plan also called for the removal of the volleyball area, a shelter near the mounds and more naturalization of the lawn area.

Nature play areas can be found at many nature centers in the area and are becoming more common throughout the metro. In addition to fostering a connection to the natural environment, nature play areas have been shown to encourage more creativity, engage children for longer periods of time, and increase their aerobic activity when compared to traditional playgrounds.

Any new playground should be constructed without excavation, significantly impacting the design options. Nature play areas are inherently less expensive and lower impact than traditional playgrounds but require more maintenance over time. A balance of durability and minimal ground disturbance can be achieved with certain nature playground products that sit above ground on a layer of gravel for drainage. These products are very heavy and would need to be brought in with large equipment. Because of this, the playground location and time of year for installation should be considerations in limiting ground disturbance. A potential nature play area could be designed and installed before the end of the year. 

Any installation will be coordinated with the SMSC and the Office of the State Archeologist.