The new play area at Hiawatha Playfield is now open, with climbing, swinging and sliding structures ready for public use as construction continues on the rest of the project.

Seattle Parks and Recreation says fencing has been removed from the northeastern portion of the construction zone, opening the new play area to families.

The western portion of the project site and the old play area will remain fenced while crews install new walkways, establish lawn, remove the old play structures and restore the landscape for nature play.

Parks is asking visitors to stay out of all fenced areas while the remaining work is completed and the new grass gets established. The rest of the project is expected to be finished in December.