ST. CHARLES COUNTY, Mo. —  Some Francis Howell School District parents have expressed discontent on social media over the incompletion of the new playgrounds at the elementary schools.

The $5.8 million project to install new inclusive playgrounds at all 10 elementary schools began June 3, according to the school district. 

The new playgrounds are expected to save the district $30,000 annually in mulch costs.

An email that was sent out in May states the new playground structures would be ready for the 2024-25 school year.

However, only three playgrounds have been finished so far, with seven nearing completion, according to the school district.

Due to the rain in July, crews lost 22 days of work on the playgrounds, which delayed the project, according to Jeanie Smith, communications manager for the district. 

“District officials have worked with our playground partners to mobilize additional crews to expedite the schedule, and pending additional weather delays, the goal is to complete all playgrounds soon,” she told Spectrum News.

The project is part of Prop S, a $244 million bond issue to build, renovate and upgrade schools and facilities.