The Sturgeon Cove Playground at Howard Amon Park is set for a major transformation this fall. Beginning the week of Monday, September 9th, 2024, crews will start demolition and construction of the new playground structures, with the project expected to take approximately 6–8 weeks to complete.
Planning and design for this upgrade commenced in 2023, and the new playground will feature a range of enhancements and additions aimed at increasing safety, accessibility, user capacity, and overall enjoyment. The playground is centered around a cruise boat theme, featuring colors and accents inspired by the natural world of the Columbia River.
The redesigned playground at this popular amenity will include a larger play structure with an expanded footprint, improved ADA accessibility, and a range of new play features. Highlights of the new playground include:
- A replica paddle wheel cruise ship inspired by those on the Columbia River
- Dueling ziplines
- Additional swings
- Play areas catering to both preschool-aged children and all-ages
- Sensory play equipment
- An inclusive whirl feature
- An expression swing
The following amenities will remain following the construction period:
- The Elephant Slide, a cherished piece of Richland’s history
- Fish sculptural elements
- Rock climbing features
The playground will also see the installation of a new shade structure over the adjacent picnic tables, funded by a generous donation from community member Robert “Bob” Zinsli. This new shade structure will enhance visitor comfort.
While the playground is closed for construction, visitors are advised to adhere to posted signage and safety instructions. Users are encouraged to visit one of the many other parks Richland has to offer. The park finder can be accessed by going to www.richlandparksandrec.com/parklocator.
We appreciate the community's patience and understanding as we work to improve Howard Amon Park for everyone’s enjoyment. For updates on the project, please visit: www.ci.richland.wa.us/projects.
City of Richland facilities will close on Monday, September 2, for the Labor Day Holiday. This includes the Horn Rapids Landfill, Richland Public Library, and the Richland Community Center.
Solid waste collection at the curb will continue as normal.
Richland Lodging Tax Grant, formerly the Hotel Motel Tax Grant, is accepting applications through Friday, September 13, 2024.
To be considered for funding, proposals must be logistically held in Richland or evidence provided that lodging will increase in Richland. Proposals must also meet the criteria as established in State law (RCW 67.28.1815) and prohibits the use of tax receipts for any other purposes. The events or projects must be used solely for the purpose of paying all or any part of the cost of tourism promotion, acquisition of tourism-related facilities, or operation of a tourism-related facilities. For more information, see www.ci.richland.wa.us/LodgingTax.
Richland Fire & Emergency Services, in partnership with the Horn Rapids Homeowners Association (HOA), are thrilled to announce the installation of the first lifesaving Automated External Defibrillator (AED) SaveStation by an HOA in Richland. The AED is located near the community’s pool and recreation area and is accessible to the public 24/7. Anyone in the vicinity can use it in a cardiac emergency.
The media is invited to attend the Launch and Ribbon Cutting on Saturday, August 24th at 10:00 a.m. The location is Horn Rapids Main Park, 2600 Clubhouse Lane, Richland, WA 99352.
The enclosure of the AED unit is temperature-controlled and sounds an alarm when opened. The portable AED provides clear instructions for proper use and is equipped with a GPS monitoring system.
This SaveStation was purchased by the HOA with the help and coordination of Richland Fire and Emergency Services. This effort is part of the Heart Safe Richland initiative with a mission to educate all citizens on the use of Hands-Only CPR and increase the availability of SaveStations throughout Richland. For more information, visit www.heartsaferichland.com or call 509-942-7703.
This is the fifth SaveStation installation at a public gathering place in Richland. Other AEDs are located at Howard Amon Park on Lee Boulevard, Columbia Point Marina Park near the boat launch, Badger Mountain Trailhead Park, and at the summit of Badger Mountain.
Richland Fire & Emergency Staff will be in attendance as well as members of the Horn Rapids HOA. A Hands-Only CPR demonstration will take place immediately following the Ribbon Cutting.