Although the playground at Malad City Park has been open to the public for a number of weeks at this point, the ribbon was officially cut to commemorate the event on May 18.

The plan had called for popsicles, with the expectation that the weather would be balmy and springish, if not fully summery.  It was instead a fully 2026 weather experience, with wind and chilly temperatures.

Undaunted, members of the park committee, city council, public at large, and Arbor Day enthusiasts showed up to recognize the efforts of the groups that helped bring the playground to completion.  A tree planting was planned as well, in observance of Arbor Day.

The playground is an amazing new asset for the community.

 Speaking on behalf of the city council, Lance Tripp recognized the efforts of the members of the committee, who had brought the project to completion in what is, at the end of the day, a remarkably quick turnaround.

Funds for the playground were raised through a combination of private and public donations, fundraising efforts, and in-kind work.

By way of connecting the ribbon-cutting event to the children of the community, comments from a number of kids who have already been enjoying the park were read to the crowd, after which the ribbon was but, and the kids were turned loose to play.

The playground officially opens just in time for the summer events that will be coming to the park, including the Malad Little League Tournament, the 4th of July events, and more.  The Welsh Festival will be moving to Samaria for the first time later in the year, and will now be held in the fall.

Malad’s Arbor Day observance is also well-timed to correspond with the expanded planting of trees throughout the City Park, which are part of a grant connected to elements involved in the Bannock Street project.