Woods Run Tot Parklet, Marshall-Shadeland: 3256 Central Avenue
While preparing for my visit to the Woods Run Tot Parklet, I looked at Google Maps and was surprised to see it flagged as “permanently closed.” I wondered what could have happened that such an extreme measure was required. Sinkholes? Landslides? Mine seepage? Water leakage? Delapitaded metal equipment from the 1920s? My curiosity was piqued. What kind of playground disaster site would I be walking into? Needless to say, what I ultimately discovered at the corner of Woods Run and Central Avenue was more than a bit unexpected.
I believe the expression “cute as a button” sums it up quite nicely. On one side, there’s lush grass, shady trees, and the sweeping glass windows of the Woods Run branch of the Carnegie Public Library. On the other is the tot park with a small selection of green, yellow, and red swings, benches, short slides, and climbing features. Next door is Fire Station 33. I think it’s safe to assume that fire trucks are a big draw for many in the tot park’s demographic. A bright and sunny street mural, wide crosswalks, and safety bollards connect it all. And for those wanting to travel city steps, flights at Hall and Westborne Streets are close by.
So, why the “permanently closed” flag on Google Maps? I have no idea. As I’d already wasted enough time envisioning playground disaster scenarios, I decided to let this one be. In this case, reality was much nicer and more positive than anything my mind had conjured.
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