For the thousands of children—and adults—who enjoy the festive Fort Sherman Playground at Coeur d’Alene City Park, there’s good news: the playground is due for major upgrades over the next several weeks.

Thanks to the Panhandle Kiwanis Club, the historically themed playground facility will receive a good power washing, fresh paint to its many caricatures, and a new coat of sealant to protect the wooden features.

“This is kind of our baby because we spearheaded construction of the playground 18 years ago,” said Dave Kilburg, president of the Panhandle Kiwanis.

It all came together in 1997 following a community-based planning effort that involved input from 2,000 citizens. Following that, volunteers from across the city rolled up their sleeves and built the playground in five days.

“It’s a beautiful playground, but it’s showing signs of age and needs a little work,” Kilburg said. The restoration will occur in three stages over the next several weeks. Volunteers will start by power washing the playground. After that, the pieces that require painting will receive a new coat and finally, the playground wood will be sealed.

Initially, the playground was expected to last about 20 years, anticipating normal wear and tear on the wooden facility. However, Kilburg said a recent analysis concluded with renovations, the popular attraction is expected to last another 12 years.

Assisting the Kiwanis in the refurbishment efforts will be local high school students. The community is invited to help seal the playground in early May. Dates will be announced soon.