The playground in Underwood, originally donated to the UPRD in 2013, has served as a cornerstone for local families, renters, and visitors from neighboring towns for over a decade. Its location, tucked away from main roads and surrounded by fencing, offers a quiet and safe space for children to play. However, as the years have passed, the playground has begun to show signs of wear and is no longer fully meeting the needs of our growing community. After much consideration, Friends of Underwood (FOU) , along with the community, voted to replace the aging playground with two brand-new play structures, providing a modern and vibrant space for children to enjoy.

The cost for the entire project is estimated between $75,000 – $100,000. The FOU Board has secured a matching grant for $50,000 from an anonymous local donor, and if we can raise $50,000 by August 1, 2025, our total project budget for the playground would hit the $100K mark, allowing us to start work on installation by 2026. FOU has hosted a number of events to raise funds, which has allowed us to take critical steps forward.

In early 2024, a dedicated committee was formed to spearhead this effort. Initially, a small group of passionate individuals, the committee quickly grew as more members of the community became involved. Many of the original members were already part of Friends of Underwood, and as the project evolved, the committee was formally absorbed into the organization. This merging of efforts allowed for better coordination and planning, ensuring that every aspect of the project could move forward smoothly.

One of the most inspiring aspects of this project is the level of community involvement we’ve seen in the process. Volunteers from the Underwood area have stepped up to assist in every phase of the process. Local residents have committed their time and energy to help with the excavation of the playground site and the breakdown of the old equipment, saving significant costs. Additionally, once the new playground equipment arrives, community members will assist with the installation. These efforts will not only help reduce expenses but also reinforce the sense of ownership and pride that everyone in Underwood feels for this space.

Our plan is to break ground in 2026, when the weather is favorable, and the community can once again come together to bring this vision to life. The project will transform the existing playground into two distinct areas: one playground designed specifically for younger children aged 2-5, and another for children aged 5-12. These two playgrounds will offer more variety and ensure that children of all ages have access to safe, fun, and developmentally appropriate play spaces.