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Drayton Valley’s newest playground project receives town funding

Jun 7, 2017 | 10:58 AM

Drayton Valley’s newest playground project received another grant Wednesday, this time coming from the Town of Drayton Valley.

Town council moved to approve $50,000 towards the Shark Park Playground, which would be the town’s first fully inclusive grounds for children and adults of all ages and abilities. The concept of the playground is “barrier free,” which allows for equipment that people with disabilities or parents with strollers can utilize. 

Councillor Debra Bossert praised the playgrounds inclusiveness as well as the Shark Park Playground committee members.

“The members worked long and hard to raise the money, and it shows dedication to the community and I am very pleased that they are choosing barrier free equipment. I commend that they have focused on that,” Bossert said. 

Deputy Mayor Brandy Fredrickson mentioned the perfect timing of the grant, due to the month of June being designated Parks and Recreation month. 

The town’s funding comes on the heels of Brazeau County Council approving $50,000 towards the park last month.

Jessica Patterson of the Shark Park Playground Committee says the path to get the playground up and running has been long coming, but things are on the upswing. 

“We started back in 2014, and it’s a big project and it took a long time to get money for it. I definitely think with us breaking ground this year it’s going to get people a lot more excited.”

Patterson says the committee has been able to secure a $125,000 Community Facility Enhancement Program grant from the provincial government as well, along with $250,000 being raised. The cost of the playground is $586,000. 

They are hoping to break ground come August or September, with volunteers coming in to help with some of the work. All in all, three weeks are being pegged for construction to be completed.

The new park will be placed on St. Anthony School’s property and will be open to the public at all times.

On top of the playground being wheelchair accessible, there will also be an exercise equipment park.