Naples considers $700K Lowdermilk Park upgrade to replace playground lost in Ian

NAPLES, Fla. (WINK) — Lowdermilk Park is looking at a nearly $700,000 expansion that would bring new life to one of Naples' most popular beachfront destinations.

The Naples City Council is set to vote on a $699,787 agreement with Playmore West Inc. for the purchase and installation of a new playground and covered gazebo at the park.

The project would replace the park's previous playground on the north side that was destroyed by Hurricane Ian in 2022.

Funding for the expansion would come from a combination of two previously approved park enhancement projects and a $250,000 donation from the Nommensen family.

The gazebo, originally planned as part of a 2025 park improvement project, was postponed after construction bids exceeded the available budget. If approved, the plan also would update the city's 2025-26 budget to provide an additional $250,000 from the Beach Fund to help cover project costs. 

Council is scheduled to vote on the project on Wednesday, June 17.