Kenosha's "Dream Playground" temporarily closed months after opening due to issues with floor

KENOSHA -- Kenosha's "Dream Playground," which opened in October 2015, has been temporarily closed for repairs due to what officials are calling a "premature wearing" of the rubberized surface at the playground.

Officials announced the closure on Friday, March 18th.

City officials say the surface was tested for fall-related safety, and flaws were found in the rubberized surface that could endanger the safety of children in the event of a fall, and impact a child's head.

The playground, located in Petzke Park, at 2900 14th Avenue (near 14th Avenue and 31st Street) has been closed pending a solution.

The specially-designed floor is made of poured-in-place rubber, and, based on fall heights, officials say specific standards need to be met.

The 15,000-square-foot "Dream Playground" has been a popular destination since it opened in October as the city's first fully accessible playground.

City officials remain proud of the community effort in raising support and constructing the playground -- an effort that involved more than 3,000 volunteers.

City officials have noted that the community participation with the build in August and September 2015 had nothing to do with the floor's performance.

The goal is to address the flooring issue and reopen the playground as soon as possible.

CLICK HERE to learn more about Kenosha's Dream Playground.