New north Raleigh playground slated to open as early as next week

The new equipment replaces the old play pieces that included metal slides that were too hot to play on pretty much all summer.

Yep ... but not anymore.

The new colorful equipment is traditional. You'll find slides, monkey bars, belt and bucket swings, a sand box and more. The larger play piece, for kids ages 5 to 12, includes lots of decking for kids to run along and some nice pieces to play with underneath, including a little slide.

The old sandy surface has been replaced with rubber matting, a great touch. There's still not a lot of shade here, but the plastic slides, I'm sure, will allow for more summer play.

I look forward to checking this playground out with my kids.

At last check with the Raleigh parks and recreation department, the new playground is scheduled to open next week. These opening dates can be moving targets. I'll let you know the latest as soon as I hear it.

For a closer look at the new playground, check out the image gallery. The park is at 1905 Spring Forest Rd., Raleigh.