Liberty Park Playground Gets Major Overhaul
City crews are replacing the oldest playground in Boise Parks and Recreation's inventory with accessible equipment and new amenities.
By Samantha Reed ·
Construction crews are actively building a new playground at Liberty Park on the Central Bench. The site, located off Emerald Street, currently has construction fencing up. The old playground equipment has been removed. The surrounding area is closed to the public. Baseball fields at the park remain open.
The project replaces the existing playground, which is the oldest in the Boise Parks and Recreation inventory. The new design was selected by the community. It features a red, white, and blue theme to match the park name. Garrett Parks + Play developed the design. It includes inclusive swings, climbing structures, and shade structures. Bonded rubber surfacing covers the ground. A fence will enclose the entire playground area.
Improvements extend beyond the play equipment. The project includes updated seating and landscaping. A new permanent restroom is being added. A custom communication board for the playground is also part of the plan. These upgrades are funded by approximately $1.47 million in impact fees and capital dollars. The Boise City Council approved these funds. The State of Idaho provided a $627,000 grant from the Land and Water Conservation Fund.
Mayor Lauren McLean stated that the work aims to create a city for everyone. She thanked neighbors for sharing their input on the design. McLean said she looks forward to cutting the ribbon with the community next summer. Boise Parks and Recreation Director Sara Arkle noted that the park has served generations. Arkle said the improvements will ensure the space remains welcoming for people of all ages and abilities.
Stroth General is the contractor handling the work. The project is expected to be completed by the summer of 2027. Liberty Park is within a 10-minute walk of about 1,090 residents. City officials said the upgrades support the goal of providing accessible parks near where families live. Residents are asked to stay outside the fenced construction areas for safety.
The city cited a request from the community for fencing to keep children safe. The new surfacing provides a uniform grade between the concrete and the playground. This design choice aims to improve accessibility throughout the site. The impact fees used for funding come from nearby growth and development.
