The playgrounds at Spellman Park are getting a makeover. Demolition began on the site during the week of March 9; the entire playground, including the swings and rock wall, will be closed until construction wraps up later this spring. Construction’s end date will be subject to weather conditions.

“It is an exciting time in Crestwood for the parks and recreation system,” Director of Parks and Recreation Eilien Ramirez said. “I drive by daily to watch the progression and look forward to when it opens for the community. One of the highlights of my job is to see the children enjoying the playground.”

According to the city of Crestwood, most of the existing playground structures were closed on Sept. 10 due to safety concerns. The playground had suffered from bent decking, exposed metal, failing steps and cracked or missing slide pieces. The Parks and Recreation Department, as well as the Park Board, have previously expressed concerns that a child could be injured on the play equipment. These concerns were the grounds for an updated playground in the first place.

In August, Crestwood residents got the chance to look at new designs for the small playground’s renovation and provide feedback to the city. From there, Parks and Recreation made a recommendation to the Board of Aldermen on the small and large playground designs.

The board authorized the purchase of the small playground at its Sept. 23 meeting, and the large playground was similarly voted through on Dec. 9.