Let’s be honest—nothing brings neighbors together quite like well-designed parks and playgrounds. Whether it’s toddlers climbing up equipment, teens shooting hoops, or parents catching up under the pavilion, shared outdoor spaces are where community happens. This is why more and more communities are building parks or upgrading neighborhood playgrounds, especially in Homeowner’s Associations (HOAs).
Living in a community with an HOA offers many benefits. While residents do pay monthly fees or annual dues, this money goes back into the neighborhood to maintain parks, playgrounds, landscaping, and swimming pools. All in all, HOA communities make excellent places to live, which is why they have significantly increased over the years, from around 10,000 in the 1970s to over 370,000 today.
If your HOA is thinking about upgrading the community with a new playground or park, you’re in the right place. Cunningham Recreation has helped hundreds of communities transform empty lots into vibrant gathering spaces, and we can help your neighborhood do the same. Here’s everything your HOA needs to know about how to make it happen.
Step 1: Know Your “Why”
Are you hoping to create a quiet nature park for morning walks? A high-energy playground for the neighborhood kids? A fitness trail for all ages? Identifying your purpose will shape everything, from the design of the playground to its layout and equipment selection. If you’re not sure what the community is looking for, ask around! A quick survey or community meeting can go a long way in understanding what people want.
Step 2: Pick the Right Spot
Location matters. The ideal location for a park or playground should be easy for residents to access, safely away from traffic and blind spots, clearly visible to promote security, and spacious enough to allow for future additions like walking trails or dog parks. Here at Cunningham Recreation, we’ll help you assess the land, consider drainage, and ensure the space meets local zoning requirements. This way, you can build with confidence.
Step 3: Design with Fun and Function
A great park is more than just swings and slides; it’s a place where people of all ages and abilities gather together while feeling welcome and engaged. While each HOA playground will look a little different, many features are non-negotiable, such as age-appropriate play zones, inclusive equipment, and shade structures and seating. Depending on the available space and your budget, you might also want to consider fitness stations for active adults, walking loops, and sensory gardens.
Step 4: Budget Accordingly
When you budget accordingly, you don't have to worry about cutting corners. After building playgrounds for nearly 60 years, we can confidently say that it’s possible to build a beautiful park and stay within budget. The cost of your playground depends on many factors, such as its size, site prep, surfacing, and features. Cunningham Recreation will help you make smart choices every step of the way.
Plus, don’t forget about grants and funding opportunities (which we can help you find), phase projects that grow over time, and maintenance planning to protect your investment. You can count on our team to provide transparent quotes, timelines, and full project support.
Step 5: Build with the Right Partner
From permits and safety standards to installation and inspections, there’s a lot that goes into building a neighborhood playground. Luckily, you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. Cunningham Recreation is your full-service partner, bringing years of experience, creativity, and high-quality equipment to the table. We handle everything, including:
● Site planning and engineering
● Project management and construction
● ADA compliance and safety guidelines
● Surfacing and landscaping
● Final walk-throughs and community unveilings
Ready to Build Something Your HOA Community Will Love?
Creating a neighborhood playground or park is one of the best investments your HOA can make. When you have the right partner, the process becomes smooth and stress-free, leaving you with a space that brings joy, connection, and generations of memories to your neighborhood. Get in touch with us today at 800-438-2780 or fill out a form online and let’s start building something amazing!
