Rotary is set to swing into action on Phase 1 of the West Shore Parks and Recreation’s Rotary Picnic Playground with the first funding goal reached.
“We’re now able to proceed with the construction of the playground and get the first half of the equipment in,” said Bobbi Neal, community development co-ordinator. “If we continue to be successful in our fundraising, the hope is to have Phase 2 done by September.”
Over $134,000 has been raised so far, in cash and in-kind donations, from a variety of sources.
Phase 1 of the playground will include the high tower slide-o-rama and the Xscape 2.0 modern monkey bar.
Surveying is expected to start in the spring with installation predicted to be complete by September 2013.
A $6,000 donation from sporting goods retailer Forzani Group, provided the final piece of the puzzle. Peninsula Co-op also donated $11,500 for the “butterfly net” a piece of equipment slated for Phase 2 that will now be installed in Phase 1.
The total cost for the entire project is estimated at $244,000.
The full playground will also include a large preschool play structure, double disc swings, seesaws and other features. The playground will feature a range of accessible components for children with disabilities.
There are over 60 legacy bricks left to purchase, ranging in price from $100 to $200. The bricks will feature the name of the donor and will be a part of a retaining wall at the playground.
“Get ‘em while they last,” said Neal. There is a donation bin in the main reception area of the Juan de Fuca Recreation Centre. All contributions over $10 can receive a tax receipt upon request.
For more information or to make a donation visit westshorerecreation.ca.