TOPEKA (KSNT) – Months of work at Gage Park’s Playland is finally paying off as park officials announce the grand opening for the refreshed playground area.
Ashley Gilfillan, spokeswoman for Shawnee County Parks and Recreation (SCP+R), said in a press release that a ribbon-cutting celebration is set for 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 24 at 635 SW Gage Blvd. for the grand opening of the reimagined Playland area. Members of the Topeka community are invited to attend the ceremony and explore the renewed Playland at Gage Park.
Gilfillan said the new Playland features new equipment to inspire children to explore and play together. The centerpiece of the new area is the elevated Sky Trail which has enclosed netted paths and slides that are 15 feet overhead.
“Generations of Shawnee County families have made memories at Playland, and this project ensures that tradition will continue for many years to come,” said SCP+R Director Tim Laurent. “We wanted to create something unlike any other playground in our community while preserving the sense of adventure and discovery that has always made Playland special.”
Gifillan said Playland also has a zip line, climbing structures, roller slides and gathering spaces designed for younger children. There is also ground-level equipment throughout the playground that children across a wide age range can enjoy.
“This investment reflects our commitment to maintaining Gage Park as a premier regional destination for recreation, family activities and community connection,” said Shawnee County Commission Chair Bill Riphahn. “We appreciate the community’s continued support of the Gage Park Improvement Authority and the lasting improvements it makes possible.”
Funds for the new Playland project were provided by the Gage Park Improvement Authority, according to the SCP+R. Commissioners approved the Sky Trail and other park improvements in early January 2025.
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