In June 2024, the 150-year-old city of Elgin, Texas, celebrated the grand opening of an exciting new playground at Thomas Memorial Park. Built on land donated by the Thomas family in the 1970s and created in partnership with fun abounds, our representative in southern Texas, this state-of-the-art playspace boasts twice the square footage of its aging predecessor.

According to Elizabeth Marzec, recreation and leisure services manager for the city’s parks and recreation department, replacing the existing playground rose to the top of the to-do list when the city received funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

“It really became a priority when we had funding available,” she explains. “It was the only park in Elgin that was not ADA accessible and didn’t have shade included.”

“The old playground was definitely showing its age,” agrees Amy Miller, community services director for the city. “We used the ARPA funds along City of Elgin general funds to build the new playground and resurface our basketball court.” 

Designed with families in mind, the inclusive new playground offers accessible features for children of all ages and abilities, thoughtful seating areas for caregivers and plenty of shade. What’s more, it incorporates the park’s natural hill, creating even more memorable play experiences at the park.

“Everyone pretty unanimously said they wanted to see an over-the-top playground,” Marzec says of the feedback organizers received during the design process. “The community overwhelmingly wanted to see hill play included. Thus was born the idea of the Cobra^® slide!” 

“We are so happy that we were able to deliver a tower and a slide that went from the tower down the hill,” she continues. “Every child we talked to was so excited about that concept. fun abounds and Burke were the ones who were able to do that for us.” 

Indeed, children of all ages will be drawn to the new hillside slides and climbers, as well as the swings with integrated shades and the dynamic Burke Nucleus Evolution^® play structure that provides new vistas, adventures and perspectives at every turn. Novo^® Playful Furniture adds a contemporary and creative touch, giving children even more places to rest, socialize and engage in imaginative play.

The playground also boasts MOVMNT^® Inclusive, an electronic game that tests agility and speed. Marzec says it is her favorite piece, noting that she has seen children of all ages and even adults engaging with it. 

Dock Jackson, the first parks and recreation director for the city, says it’s incredible to witness the positive changes at the park. A half century ago, it was primarily known for its ball fields.

“To see the beautiful playground that’s been developed here is just awesome,” Jackson says. “It makes me proud.” 

It’s clear others share his pride and excitement. The new playground is becoming a major destination, drawing families from across the neighborhood and even across the city.

“The park is walkable for the whole neighborhood,” Miller says. “It’s meeting the needs of the people who are here but also the needs of all the people coming to Elgin. We are very much a growing community.” 

Theresa McShan, Elgin’s mayor, agrees. She says the playground helps bring the community back together as a whole.

“This is Thomas Memorial Park, and it is open to all the citizens of Elgin,” she says. “It’s wonderful.”

One final detail will be important to current and future generations of Elgin residents. The new playground keeps the longtime park’s signature purple theme alive.

“We’re the Elgin Wildcats,” McShan says with a smile. “We bleed purple.” 

Looking to bring more play to your community? Contact your local Burke Representative today to get started!