Madawaska Valley wants to involve the community to bring in a new play structure for Lakeshore Park.
The township’s Recreation & Community Development Coordinator, Hannah Gutoskie, says the Barry’s Bay park has gone without something appropriate for ages 5 to 12 for some time.
Gutoskie says the park has a long history of support from the community and has set up a number of sponsorships to help fund the 60-square-foot structure ahead of its construction this September.
The community has felt the impact of the missing play structure since the previous one was torn down in 2020 due to safety reasons, with Gutoskie herself admitting that she and her young family have not made use of it as much as they should.
Sponsorships range from owning the naming rights to the playground, to being on the permanent signage in Lakeshore Park to recognition on social media, an invitation to take part in the ribbon cutting, and more.
All donations come with tax receipts, and the township is also looking for help with excavation, as well as a bike rack and bench to be installed near the playground.
Township staff have set aside $60,000 for the project and are looking for the community to at least match them ahead of the playground’s completion this fall. Excess funds will go back into parkland reserves for future projects at our parks and beaches.
If you’re interested, Gutoskie says to get in touch with her recreation team via email or by calling 613-756-2747, ext. 220. You can also see the full breakdown for Project Playground on the Township of Madawaska Valley’s website.
(written by Kasey Egan)
