A new playground area at Torguson Park, dubbed the Tot Lot, opened in time for the city centennial celebration on Saturday, Aug. 8.

“We are so excited to bring both of these projects to the city as part of our 100th birthday party” said North Bend Mayor Ken Hearing. “The playground equipment was long requested by families visiting the park to watch baseball and soccer games. It gives a great diversion for the younger visitors while the games are played.”

The Tot Lot was financed as part of the city’s 2009 Centennial Budget and was constructed by the R.C. Ziegler Company and Architecreations, Inc. The playground installation was a priority project of the City Council and the North Bend Parks Commission, a volunteer organization that acts as an advisory body to the council. The commission also produced the initial design for the improvements to be installed.

“This was a key element in implementing the long term vision for Torguson Park” said commission member Ryan Kolodejchuk. “Using recycled plastic for the upright timbers was an important ecological consideration. The pieces are esthetically pleasing as well.”