High Park Playground Renovation: New Tower, Splash Pad & Courts

High Park reopened May 29 with a $1 million-plus renovation funded by the Derby Difference Sales Tax, adding a 30-foot climbing tower, splash pad, and eight lighted pickleball courts.

The centerpiece is the Hedra Tower, a geometric climbing structure with hexagonal pods that allows children ages five and up to climb 30 feet high. Younger children can use the ground-level Hedra Scout. The adjacent splash pad features overhead sprays, shaded seating, and a shallow stream with stones and pebbles.

The project also added restrooms near the playground, expanded parking, upgraded the Darrell Zimmerman Family Shelter with new play space, and modernized amphitheater restrooms. The eight pickleball courts on the north end include additional parking and amenities.

High Park is one of Derby's largest parks and hosts festivals, sports leagues, and community gatherings. The site includes a fishing lake, amphitheater, trails, and athletic fields.