Payne Park playground to close for two weeks

As crews put the finishing touches on the new Payne Park playground, the area will be closed temporarily for two weeks starting Thursday, Sept. 27.

The temporary closure is necessary for safety reasons while workers install a shade structure near the play area designated for ages 3-5. The playground is expected to reopen Friday, Oct. 12. The construction work will require the use of heavy equipment, pouring concrete and digging open trenches for irrigation lines. Landscaping also will be installed around the playground.

The Payne Park playground opened to the public in June during the inaugural Sarasota Sports Festival.