Kitsap Kids Playground at the Kitsap County Fairgrounds closed temporarily June 30, due to ongoing construction on adjacent tennis courts managed by Central Kitsap School District. The closure is expected to last through August, with the playground set to reopen once construction traffic subsides.

The tennis courts, located near the playground and used by Olympic High School, are undergoing full demolition and replacement to address significant structural cracking and drainage issues. A geotechnical evaluation is also being conducted to help prevent future damage from flooding or instability.

“Central Kitsap School District is committed to maintaining safe, high-quality facilities for our students and community,” said Scott McDaniel, executive director of business and operations. “The reconstruction of the tennis courts near Kitsap Kids Playground is part of our long-range capital projects plan and was scheduled for summer to avoid disrupting the fall (August–November) and spring (March–June) high school tennis seasons.”

McDaniel added that the dry summer weather is critical for this kind of work and that Kitsap County Parks decided to close the playground during demolition to ensure public safety.

“We understand the timing is inconvenient for families during summer break, and we appreciate their patience,” he said. “Our elementary school playgrounds remain open and available for use, and Kitsap County Parks Department looks forward to reopening Kitsap Kids Playground as soon as possible once construction activities have subsided.”

Hellas Construction, the contractor leading both this project and a separate turf replacement at OHS’s football stadium, mobilized in mid-June. Fencing and signage have been installed at both sites, and safety protocols are in place.

Tennis courts are on track to be repaved by the end of July, with both projects scheduled for completion before fall sports resume.

For more information, residents can contact Kitsap County Parks at parks@kitsap.gov.