SLO County city closes playground after inspectors spot safety hazard. What they found
A Paso Robles playground will be out of operation for the foreseeable future due to safety hazards found during a regular inspection.
According to a release from the city, Pioneer Park’s playground area was closed as of Thursday after certified playground inspectors identified hazards that could pose a risk to users.
Paso Robles Public Works director Freda Berman said the safety inspections are performed on a monthly basis.
The most recent inspection of Pioneer Park’s playground — the oldest playground in the city — found that its steps were damaged by vandalism, Berman said in an email to The Tribune.
Other parts of the playground structure were also damaged or removed, and replacements were not available.
Additionally, the playground’s equipment specifications do not meet current safety standards, Berman said.
Because replacement parts for the damaged playground equipment cannot be ordered, the city will pursue quotes for a replacement, according to the release.
“Safety is our top priority,” Berman said in the release. “We understand this is disappointing news for families who enjoy Pioneer Park, but we are committed to providing safe, high-quality play spaces for our community.”
While the playground area is closed, the rest of Pioneer Park’s public area will still be usable while repairs are completed, Berman said.
Additionally, in January, a new park is expected to open at Royal Oaks Playground, featuring more modern, safe and accessible play equipment, according to the release.
