Budgeting for Play: Old Sacramento's Playground Costs Soar!

In a surprising turn of events, the estimated cost for the new playground in Old Sacramento has ballooned by over $710,000, pushing the total budget to more than $2.8 million. The city council has pointed fingers at tariffs, rising labor, and construction costs for this unanticipated increase. This has left many local residents wondering just how much more it will take to bring their dream park to life.

To finance this hefty price tag, the council approved using funds from the Community Center Fund, which will be supplemented by a state grant and the American Rescue Plan. It’s comforting to know that the city is not abandoning this playground project, though it does bring up the question of what expenses will be covered by tax dollars. Building our kids a fun and safe space while keeping budgeting on track isn’t exactly child’s play.

Notably, the park will be uniquely designed with input from the Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians and Wilton Rancheria, incorporating a Native American theme that honors local heritage. The park’s name, Mómtim C’atnaandí, meaning“along the river”in Nisenan, adds a cultural touch that parents and kids alike can appreciate. As construction aims for completion by next summer, let’s keep our fingers crossed that final costs don’t keep climbing to infinity and beyond!