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Washington Evening Journal
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Lamson Woods playground in Fairfield open to public
FAIRFIELD — Children in Fairfield have another place to play thanks to a donation from a local family who funded the construction of a new playground in the southeast part of town.
The Dowd family of Fairfield donated funds to build a series of play structures in Lamson Woods State Preserve. The play structures range from bucket swings to climbing apparatuses that can be enjoyed by children of varying ages. Construction began in late June and finished in September. The Fairfield City Council accepted the project as complete at its Sept. 25 meeting.
Members of the public are invited to use the playground, provided they are mindful to stay off the recently planted grass seed. A ribbon-cutting ceremony at the playground is planned for mid-October.
The Dowd family owns Cado Avocado Ice Cream, and every year the company gives to an organization called One Percent for the Planet, which directs 1 percent of a company’s proceeds to environmental causes. The family’s contributions have gone to causes such as cleaning up the oceans and food for kids.
“It feels really good to give back,” said Deb Dowd. “I think it goes in line with the product we have.”
Meghan Dowd, Deb’s daughter, said the company wants to create a better world.
“That includes making a better product, and taking care of the places we love,” Meghan said.
The Dowds decided to direct their donation to a local cause, that of constructing a new playground in Fairfield. The Jefferson County Trails Council had just become eligible to receive funds from One Percent for the Planet, so that was the organization chosen to receive the donation. In the fall of 2021, a committee was formed to plan a playground at Lamson Woods State Preserve. The committee consisted of Meghan Dowd, Darin Dowd, Stephanie Wharton, Kimberly Broz and Stephen Pedrick.
After a year and a half of planning, the group decided on the style of the equipment and hired a contractor to install the structures, Partner Construction LLC, owned by John Loin. Meghan said the committee that worked on the playground chose “nature-oriented” play structures that fit in nicely with the surrounding timber. She said it feels great to see those months of meetings finally pay off.
“I’ll take a walk by and see kids playing out here,” Meghan said. “It feels nice that we’re able to make an impact in the lives of a lot of kids. I’d like to add a little more to it.”
Meghan said she has ambitious plans to expand the playground even more in the coming years, assuming the family can get city approval.
“I’d love to add a zip line,” Meghan said. “And maybe a few things for younger kids, like a playhouse or slide.”
Call Andy Hallman at 641-575-0135 or email him at andy.hallman@southeastiowaunion.com
