Double Grand Opening in Columbia Park Saturday

Two significant attractions in Kennewick’s Columbia Park reopen on Saturday, June 15 just in time for summer fun. The public is invited to attend a dedication ceremony at the Toyota of Tri-Cities Playground of Dreams at 11a, and a noon ribbon cutting at the new Columbia River Landing building at the Columbia Park Golf Tri-Plex.

The celebration includes live music, prizes, demonstrations and half-price membership specials at the Columbia Park Golf Tri-Plex from 11a to 4p.

The state-of-the-art, inclusive playground replaces the weathered and deteriorating wood structure originally constructed by donors and volunteers in 1999. The rebuild ensures the legacy of the Toyota of Tri-Cities Playground of Dreams continues for future generations, said Parks and Recreation Director Emily Estes-Cross. “We’re grateful and wish to honor those that had the vision to build the first playground, and thankful to the community for its continued commitment two decades later to fund a safe, inclusive, dreamworthy playground,” said Estes-Cross.

The 1,600 square foot modern structure is constructed of durable materials that resist heat and splinters, includes custom elements iconic of the Tri-Cities, and features an inclusive design that enables kids of various abilities to play side-by-side with their peers.

In addition to Toyota of Tri-Cities, the $1 million rebuild has been financially supported by the Tri-City Water Follies, Columbia Center Rotary, Port of Kennewick, Laborers Union Local #348, KVEW TV, Conover Insurance, the Permobil Foundation, a donation fund balance from the original Playground of Dreams construction, and $325,000 from the city budget.

Inscribed pickets purchased by donors that made up the fenceline of the original playground are available for pickup at the Southridge Sports and Events Complex during business hours through August 6. More information is available at go2kennewick.com/PlaygroundOfDreams.

The 2,600 square foot Columbia River Landing facility features a full service kitchen and 1,200 square foot patio with river views, in addition to hosting golf course operations. It replaces the original golf course clubhouse that was constructed in 1961.
The rebranded Tri-Plex offers 18-holes of traditional golf on a 3-par course, foot golf and disc golf.

For more information, please contact Emily Estes-Cross at (509) 585-4258.