The recently opened playground and splash pad at Lathrop Park in Plano ran into some problems shortly after it opened last week.

Mayor Bob Hausler said the city immediately closed the park and inspected and thoroughly cleaned the area of a few pieces of new mulch in the playground that contained exposed metal.

“The park is now reopened,” he said. “The parks committee will meet this week to discuss any further action concerning this issue. We have added signage at the park concerning shoes or some foot protection while in the park. This is precautionary.”

City council members last week approved payment of $129,847 to Copenhaver Construction for completion of the project, on recommendation of Tom Karpus, director of building, planning and zoning.

He said this was the second payment on the project, adding that there is $10,000 being held by the city until the project receives final approval.

Karpus also received approval to pay Rubber Safe Playgrounds for the rubber mulch that was installed in the park playground at a cost of $20,720.

Lathrop Park covers 23,700 square feet, and is located at Hale and North streets. In addition to the new splash pad, it contains a gazebo for a shaded sitting area and a shelter with picnic tables.

The largest portion of the area consists of a playground with two stages of play structures for tots and school-age children. It is one of the most utilized parks in the center of town.