Cost of insurance for community park?

You just stepped in it. There are LOTS of variables to consider outside of insurance. Although the best resource would to discuss it with your insurance carrier. You may be surprised as it did not increase any for us when I asked. We already had a pool and clubhouse. That being said, there are other things to look at.

The type of playground equipment matters. Ours was a small HOA. Did not need much equipment. Found those Wood playground equipment companies interesting. However, reading the fine print, you find that their warranty does NOT cover for community use. There's a limit of like 6 kids and private use. Meaning you don't have a warranty if installed. Lowes/Home depot has playground equipment options. Again, watch for warranty, return policy, and installation. Who's going to put the equipment together and be responsible?

An option I checked into was purchasing used equipment from the Park and Recs department in our city/county. They sometimes get rid of it for newer equipment. It's cheaper and made for commercial use. You may even consult them on where they get the equipment.

Our HOA members voted down the idea of a park for the kids. They said the kids won't be using it long and elementary school nearby. Wasn't worth the noise, money, and risk for the few kids that we had. Considering we have a rotating door of residents. So you want to make sure other parents are on board for a playground BEFORE pursuing. May sound good but doesn't mean parents want it.

As for the pavilion or other buildings, insurance costs may be more liability than replacement. It may be cheaper to replace a 2K gazebo than to keep paying $25 a month for replacement. Considering there is a high deductible involved.

Get the votes and support first before proceeding too far. Those interested can be assigned different duties to make the project happen.

Insurance costs can vary by State, County and HOA.
We have 2 playgrounds, sidewalks a bus stop shelter and carry a 1 million dollar liability policy.

Regarding reserves, what you will need to put away for expected maintenance of trail, playground, and pavilion will vary. If you haven't had a reserve study done in the past, you should have one done.

If the trail is dirt, you may need to grade and regravel.
If the trail is asphalt, you will need to seal, and repave.

The pavilion (like our bus stop shelter) may need to be powerwashed and sealed every few years.
At some point in time it will also need to be replaced.

Regarding playground equipment, it will need replaced over time. There will likely be unexpected repairs as well. mulch/padding will need to be replaced and topped off over the years.

To learn more about reserve studies, see the following thread in this forum (it's a link to the thread):
Subject: Reserve Studies/Funds 101

To determine insurance costs, write a request for proposal identifying the common elements the Association owns and contact insurance agents. I would suggest a million dollar liability policy but let the agent know that you are open to hearing options they would recommend.

Hope this helps,

Tim