Lacey’s SS Gateway playground sails closer to spring opening

SS Gateway, the tugboat-themed playground under construction at William A. Bush Park in Lacey, is starting to look like a ship worth boarding. 

The City of Lacey released photos on Thursday, Feb. 26, showing the steel frame rising above the park's gravel surface. The structure's blue-and-yellow hull panels are already in place. 

"We can already imagine young captains setting sail on new adventures," said the city in a statement on the park.

Construction is moving toward a spring opening, though the city noted the final completion date will hinge on the weather. The playground’s rubber surfacing, a key safety feature replacing the existing wood chips, must be installed during several consecutive days of dry, warm conditions. 

The city said it plans to mark the opening with a celebration and encouraged residents to stay tuned for updates. 

The playground replacement was financed through a Gateway Rotary Club donation and a grant from the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office. 

"We are grateful for their partnership in helping create new opportunities for play in our community," the city said. 

William A. Bush Park is located at 4400 Chardonnay Drive S.E. in Lacey.