Willow Creek Park, a popular Centennial destination, is to receive a makeover.
Centennial will spend approximately $640,000 on renovations, which are going forward during the winter months. On January 13, for example, crews put a brand new pedestrian bridge in place.
Willow Creek Park is located in the neighborhood of the same name, and is part of the South Suburban Parks system. The renovations are being funded jointly by Arapahoe County Open Space, Centennial itself, and South Suburban Parks and Recreation.
The improvements include new playground equipment, which should be ready for use by April. Part of the remodel included removing the popular caterpillar piece.
Children have enjoyed climbing on the metal bug for years, crawling along its yellow back up to its purple head. The area gained the informal nickname of ‘Caterpillar Park’ thanks to the piece. Aware of how beloved it was, South Suburban wanted to keep it, but it did not meet current standards for playground equipment. The park is saving the head, and will turn it into an art piece.
The new playground will be divided into two areas: one for children from 2-5, and the second for kids ages 5-12. The total cost of playground equipment will be about $129,000.
When it opens, park management could work with a banner printing company to create a colorful banner for outdoor use.
