St. Joseph City Commissioners have approved the installation of new playground equipment at Dickinson Park.

Commissioners heard from Public Works Director Greg Grothous this week that funding was approved as part of the 2025/2026 Capital Improvement plan. Grothous said the city received a grant and a donation to help cover the equipment’s $129,000 cost.

Commissioner Michael Fernandez said the equipment will be a welcome addition to the park.

“I’m a big fan,” Fernandez said. “I think it’ll complete Dickinson Park. It’s got the restroom coming. It just saw the field itself, was just renovated and through the partnership and agreement and a lot of other work. So this is just, it’s nice seeing that park kind of come to some form of completion. Then getting this added feature will be a great boost for all the kids that live in the neighborhood.”

The purchase and installation of the playground is necessary to complete the park improvements agreed to as part of the lease agreement for Dickinson Park with St. Joseph Public Schools. Grothous said the new equipment comes with technology that will enable to city to learn how it’s being most utilized.

Commissioners approved the purchase and installation of the equipment unanimously.

The playground will include swings, a jungle gym, and slides.