Avondale Estates’ city commission approved agreements Monday night for construction and playground equipment regarding the re-development of Willis Park, the city’s three-acre, 90-year-old park.

“Finally!” said Commissioner Randy Beebe. The original Willis Park ad hoc committee was created in 2011, more than two years before Beebe was elected.

Cost is $120,000 for the playground—some of its current fixtures including metal swings date to the 1960s—and $485,000 for construction. Total estimated re-development costs are $640,000. Besides two new playgrounds, renovations include widening the entry, a new pavilion, open green space and a pathway encircling the park.

The next step is a meeting between city staff and contractors, but for now work’s scheduled to begin Sept. 7 and take, weather permitting, 150 days or until Jan. 14.

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