ARTHUR – Rain or shine, the Arthur Optimist Club has got you covered – literally.
The club launched its baseball diamond dugout covers project at the beginning of May.
Treasurer for the club Nicholas Hansen spearheaded the project, ultimately getting support from the Township and club.
The two dugouts and covers were completed in five days but stretched out over a month from start to finish.
“The club is always looking for projects to improve the betterment of the community,” Hansen told the Community News.
When he presented the project to the club, they supported him completely.
The budget for the project was just over $16,000, with the funds needed raised by the club.
“Events like Canada Day weekend, any draw we run, the ‘meat draws’ at the legion, any kind of event,” added Hansen referring to how the money was raised.
“We have a general account where all the funds go and then we figure out what we can budget.”
The project had roughly 20 volunteers donate their time and efforts to get the dugout and covers finished in time for summer use.
Pat Saunders from Saunders Construction was the general contractor and ran all the construction for the project.
“He was able to oversee and make sure everything was in line,” added Hansen.
Alongside Saunders were seven other businesses willing to help.
The Township of Wellington North’s building department, recreation services and the roads department lent a helping hand as well.
“A lot of people donated their time,” Hansen said.
The ball diamonds are located at 158 Domville St. in Arthur.
Hansen was inspired to improve the diamond as he himself plays on it occasionally.
He thought of the hot weather coming and potential rain falls.
“It’s alright when you’re playing in the field but when you’re just sitting there getting rained on, it’s not fun.”
Wellington North Mayor Andy Lennox told the Community News, “I would like to thank all the people that pulled this project together to help enhance the ball players’ experience in Arthur.”
Future projects for the optimist club are in the works.
Hansen stated an outdoor multi-use pad project is being discussed but the location is not yet determined.
