Southside Park in Tyler has been closed for repair after problems with the rubber surface underneath the playground equipment. The park had recently been renovated and reopened in mid-November 2019 to make it an inclusive playground for children of all abilities.

Due to needed repairs to its rubber surface, the all-inclusive playground at Southside Park is closed for what could be a few months of construction to replace the turf.

The playground, which opened in November, includes wheelchair ramps, soft and smooth surface turf, accessible swings and a wheelchair rocker for kids of all abilities to enjoy. The project was a group effort between the city of Tyler, the parks and recreation department and Tyler Area Ambucs.

The closure began March 4, and a fence has been installed around the perimeter of the playground for safety.

Tyler Director of Parks and Recreation Russ Jackson said there was a failure underneath the rubberized surface, which he believes was caused by the base not being installed properly. Rainwater then made parts of the surface move around, which created an unsafe area.

He said he’s waiting to hear back on reports from engineers to determine if an improper base installation was the definitive cause.

All 14,885 square feet of the rubber surface has to be removed and replaced. The project could be at least two to three months long, Jackson said.

Aside from the playground, the basketball court, pavilion and restrooms are still open to the public.

“We hate to see it because the kids love it,” he said. “It’s the most popular playground facility we have now. A lot of people have thanked us for it.”

He said he’s heard from people who are disappointed about the closure, but they also understand the need for safety and precaution.

“We want it to be where someone doesn’t get hurt,” he said. “Shutting it down — we just didn’t have a choice.”

In total, the project cost close to $1 million. The entire rubber surface cost just over $200,000 for material and installation. Donations funded the parking lot, sidewalks and lighting. The city’s Half Cent Sales Tax Board paid for the playground equipment, Jackson said.

Since the surface is under warranty with the company that built playground, there should not be any additional costs unless other changes or issues arise, Jackson added.

The parks department wants to make sure the surface is done correctly, he added.

“I know it’s an unfortunate thing,” Jackson said. “We just want to get it done as quick as we can.”