WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. -- More than 50 children attended a ribbon cutting ceremony for a new playground here May 27 on March Drive near the Spirit Gate.

"The overall project is part of the Fiscal Year 2007 Improve Family Housing plan," said Mr. Ernie Macios, 509th Civil Engineer Squadron project manager.

The FY07 plan is a $11.6 million base housing contract to improve housing facilities through renovation of 52 units, demolition of 69 units and construction of two playgrounds.

The new playground, which began construction in September 2009, boasts nine slides, four baby swings, four large swings, a carousel and more.

The features are part of three separate play equipment sets that allow children of similar age and size to play together.

"This playground is a wonderful addition to the base," said Julie Jolly, Whiteman Child Development Center director. "The kids had a blast at the opening and our classes have planned several trips back to the playground in the near future."