The first phase of construction of a new playground in Chapple started Friday morning. It was completed by late Saturday afternoon.
“We have not had nearly the volunteers out as expected,” said Shirly Dumas and Crystal Hyatt of the playground committee.
The volunteers who did show up included Pat Hyatt, Dave Merelvie, Brett Mann, Nathan Darrah, Samantha LaBelle, Mike Brusven, Vaughan Wilson, Crystal Hyatt, Mathew Dumas, Brody Mann, Brandon Pratt, Tyler LaBelle, Trudy Engels, Jessica Engels, Melissa LaBelle, and Max Dumas.
Three members from the Blue-Imp Company in Alberta, from whom the equipment was purchased, also were on hand.
It initially was decided to build the playground next to the Chapple Hall, on the south side. But residents living in that area strongly voiced their opinion against the move.
The committee then decided to search for another location, and the best they could do was put the equipment at the northeast corner of Main Street and Alleyway Avenue.
“It took five years of planning and fundraising projects to get things rolling,” noted Shirly Dumas, and here we are making it a reality for the community.
The project cost $35,000 and the fundraising is continuous, said Dumas, adding there could be a second phase to the playground equipment or a basketball court.
The committee will continue to plug along to see how it can improve the community along with their partners, including Chapple council, the business sector, and residents.
The playground committee would like to thank all the businesses, and especially all the volunteers who had turned out on July 25. All your help is greatly appreciated.
Without you, this project would have stayed on the ground.
The committee now is going to stage a “Name the Playground Area” contest. Those interested are asked to submit your ideas to the municipal office by noon on Sept. 1.
Prizes will be given out to everyone who participates.
foto
