Prior Lake, Minnesota - Children at Playworks will soon have a new 11,000 square foot play area to enjoy with the reconstruction of the region’s largest indoor playground. Both the Atrium and Arcade at Playworks will receive a completely different look. Demolition of the existing structure will begin Monday, April 21, 2008, and last nearly one week. The Atrium, Arcade, and Concession Stand will be closed for Group Trips, Family Play, and Birthday Parties for about one month. The re-opening date for the Atrium is tentatively scheduled for June 1, 2008.

Before the renovation, the Atrium, built in 1994, was home to a multi-level playstructure, with slides, tunnels, and bouncers as well as a giant tree house with computer games and areas for quiet time and reading. “The old structure served us well, but it’s time for a new one,” said Playworks Director Amy Donaldson.”

The newly remodeled Atrium will contain a larger playstructure with active play elements throughout the large muscle climber. Included in the play equipment are a number of different interactive games including slides, jumpers, twists, turns, webs, bridges, and tangles. Visibility throughout the climber will allow parents to watch children playing and having fun, or parents can choose to participate and join in the fun. Under the climber there is a new 12 X 12, lighted, interactive floor where children and adults can choose from an assortment of games or dance.

“We’re very excited about the changes coming to the Atrium,” said Donaldson. “It will provide a great space for families to relax and play together as well as for group trips and birthday parties.”

The Arcade will be relocated to a different area of the Atrium and will have more interactive movement games along with past favorites. The Arcade features a great variety of games and activities, including ticket redemption games and super fun arcade games. Children love to redeem game tickets at PWs Redemption Counter! There will be more room for seating and active play as well.

The renovation will be conducted in phases, with the indoor playground to be completed first. Phase II will bring in large interactive arcade games; Wii, Playstation 3, and X-Box 360 game stations; and non-violent computer games in addition to a new host stand, flooring, and seating. Large screen televisions will be mounted throughout the Atrium and will be available for individual or multi-player games. Phase III will encompass changes to the building including updates to lighting, security cameras, fire alarms and sprinklers. Phases II and III are scheduled for completion in the fall of 2008.

Playworks’ mission is to provide quality education and care to children, build cooperative partnerships with parents, provide meaningful employment, and provide a viable, fun, quality entertainment source for families.

Playworks provides a one-of-a-kind magical experience for children and their families! A Playworks experience combines innovation, imagination, a touch of adventure, and a commitment to learning and fun. Playworks has been providing entertainment, education and high quality care to children six weeks to 12 years of age for over 14 years.

^ top ^