Your Local Playground Might Be on the Chopping Block

by Ken Rigel

Here’s What That Means If You’ve Got Kids (or You’re House Hunting)

If you’ve got young kids—or you're house hunting—you might see a playground and think "Now that's a great park." But you might not be thinking...“Will that playground still be there next season?” In some Calgary neighbourhoods, the answer isn’t a sure yes. That’s because the City is actively reviewing playgrounds, and some are being removed. Let’s unpack what’s going on, how it affects families, and why it matters when you’re buying.

Why Playgrounds Are Being Removed (and When They're Improved)

Calgary currently maintains over 1,100 playgrounds. As equipment ages, the City has to decide: fix, replace, reimagine—or remove it entirely. Here's how that works:

Safety inspections happen seven times a year.
Age, condition, use, nearby playgrounds, and neighbourhood demographics all guide decisions.
Calgary aims for 5 playgrounds per 1,000 kids under age 12; spots that don't add to that ratio may be repurposed.

Recently, the “Hidden Playground” on Woodglen Road SW was slated for removal—it’s old, heavily shaded, and secluded. But some folks in that neighbourhood are not happy with what's being put there instead.

What Parents Should Know Right Now

Your playground may be under review
That aging swing set or quiet corner park could be next. The City’s lifecycle program is working through over 400 playgrounds that are 20+ years old.
New options may come instead
Some spaces are being reimagined—think paths, benches, nature features, and multi-generational amenities, not just swings and slides.
Now’s the time to speak up
If you want your swing set or play structure replaced—or don’t want it removed—get involved, connect with your community association, and provide feedback through the City’s playground optimization process.

Safety First: Changes Are Happening on the Road Too

Playground safety isn’t just about sturdy equipment—it’s also about the streets around them.

Playground zones in Calgary are now in effect 7:30 a.m.–9 p.m., not just school hours
The speed limit is 30 km/h and there’s increased traffic enforcement around high-risk zones
That’s a big deal for families, especially when kids dart across the street chasing soccer balls or following friends.

Why It Matters When Buying a Home

Playgrounds aren’t just nice—they impact real estate. Here’s how:

🌱 Walkable access = value
Homes within a short walk to a playground or park often see property value boosts between 8–20%.

💡 A well-maintained park signals invested neighbors
When a playground is updated or intentionally reimagined, it shows the community cares—great for both raising kids and resale value.

📍 Is it staying or going?
When you’re buying, ask: is the nearby playground scheduled for lifecycle review? Will it be upgraded or torn out?

Multi-generation—and multi-purpose—play spaces
Today’s playground upgrades often include benches, paths, and a mix of play styles so grandparents, toddlers, and teens all benefit. That matters more as households blend generations under one roof.

What You Can Do

Check status: Visit Calgary’s Playground Optimization & Lifecycle Program online to see which parks near you are due for work.
Join your community association: They can influence planning and public feedback.
Report unsafe posts: Use the 311 app to flag damaged equipment or hazards.
Talk to your realtor: Ask about playground status when you’re seeing homes—and let them know play access is a must.

Bottom Line

Your local playground isn’t just for fun—it’s part of your family’s life and your home’s value. Calgary is rethinking old equipment, improving some spaces, and yes, removing others. As a parent or buyer, now’s the time to get smart, get involved, and make sure your area keeps—or gets—the perfect play space. And if you’re shopping, we’ll help you find a home that checks that playground box.