In the final stages of fundraising, the Drayton skatepark committee is looking forward to a proposed park becoming a reality in 2015.
The original goal of the committee was to provide a safe and inviting facility where families can spend time together, getting exercise outside. In addition to the ramps, rails and stairs designed for skateboards, rollerblades, BMX bikes and scooters, people of every age group will be able to sit and watch activities at the park in a shaded shelter, protected from the wind, commitee members noted.
Interested residents joined the cause for varied reasons.
Nick Wiens said, “I took on this project because I am an avid BMXer and have been partially in charge of the make shift skate park on Andrew’s Drive. The park has grown in popularity and it would be nice to see a completed community skate park that is safe and structurally sound.”
Cody Wick said, “There was a desperate need for a new skate park. The wooden ramps just don’t last through the winters. It’s starting to cost us teenagers too much money to maintain it.”
During the fundraising, many Mapleton residents contributed to the park financially, with physical resources, time and talents. Fundraising, promotions, logo design, demonstrations, a wall of recognition, skate park sign and benches all have been part of the contributions.
Committee member Jo-Anne Brown is looking forward to the completion of the project. Brown feels it is important for the youth to know their community cares enough for them to have a safe, township-approved skate park.
When the project is fully funded and the concrete pad has been constructed,in 2015, committee member Dahl Atin hopes members of the community will join together in arranging and assembling the ramps, rails and other structures. She hopes the Drayton skate park will become a new gathering place that is owned and cared for by everyone who values the youth of the township.
The skatepark committee is still in need of $2,300 to complete the community commitment to the project. Donations are being accepted at the Township of Mapleton offices. For more information on the Skate Park contact Brown at bikerbrown1@live.ca or Atin at dahlatin@hotmail.com
