FRANKFORT, Ind. (July 30, 2025) – Frankfort’s Third Street Park is set to receive significant upgrades, including new playground equipment and a revamped northern section, as discussed during the Board of Public Works and Safety meeting on Monday. City officials conveyed excitement for the project, noting that new equipment is expected to arrive within two weeks.
The old swing sets and playground equipment at the park have been removed due to their dilapidated condition, described as “very bad shape,” “cracked up,” and posing a risk to park-goers. The new playground will be installed in the same location and will feature a new type of rubber mulch surrounding it.
Major changes are also planned for the park’s north side. The north restrooms, which have not been in use for years and have sustained considerable damage, including axe-inflicted holes and interior vandalism, are slated for demolition. The adjacent sandbox, deemed “a mess,” will also be removed. The area where these structures currently stand will be leveled and reconfigured to create a “just lawn area,” potentially with picnic tables. Officials are currently evaluating the need for new restroom facilities on that side, given the absence of other nearby options.
Funding for the new playground equipment, which cost approximately $64,000, came in part from American Rescue Plan money. Officials noted the high current cost of playground equipment, indicating that the acquired set was one of the smallest the department could afford, with a desired, larger set having an estimated cost of $120,000. The $64,000 price was a sale price, reduced from an initial estimate of around $70,000, and includes installation.
The overall sentiment regarding the park’s renovation is positive, with city representatives stating they are “excited” and that “things are moving in the right direction.”
