Stu Salkeld, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter/ ECA Review January 28, 2021 @ 2:39pm published 2:51pm
Fans of Stettler’s skatepark will have a lot to be excited about this summer Stettler council approved funding for completion of the Phase II (bowl) project during the regular meeting of council Jan. 19.
Manager of Recreation and Culture Brad Robbins presented councillors with a report on the project, which he noted has been ongoing for some time.
“The Stettler Skateboard Park was originally built in 2013,” stated Robbins in his report.
“Since that time it has been a community hub facility providing skateboard, bike and scooter enthusiasts the opportunity to safely participate in their activity while also acting as a community hang out for local youth.
“The original build was deemed Phase I (flow park) with both the local fundraising group and Town of Stettler agreeing in principle to expand the park with a Phase II (bowl) when funds became available. In 2019 the fundraising group provided the remaining funds to the Town of Stettler that had been raised.
“Through previous discussions in late 2019, early 2020, it was agreed that the Town of Stettler would secure the services of New Line Skateparks Inc. to begin the process of concept, design and construction for the Phase II expansion.”
Robbins noted in his report $10,000 was spent in 2020 on planning, with the town’s 2021 capital budget holding $223,000 for the project.
Robbins stated construction itself would account for just shy of $215,000. Councillor Wayne Smith asked if the project cost could increase for any reason. Robbins responded no, in fact the project cost will go down as donations or in-kind gifts are received.
Mayor Sean Nolls asked when the bowl would be finished. Robbins responded it should be done by August to September, and that’s the soonest the contractors could do it.
He noted the contractor was slipping this job in between two other jobs next summer. Coun. Scott Pfeiffer asked if the town had received donations for this project. Robbins answered the fundraising group is still working on the project. Pfeiffer asked how the fundraising is being conducted.
Robbins stated that as soon as town council approves funding for this project, the fundraising group will go to work.
Coun. Malcolm Fischer stated he was glad to see the project moving ahead so quickly. Robbins noted that there may be closure of some parts of the skatepark next summer as work progresses, but some parts would remain open and added that the work would not interfere with skaters enjoying the parts that remain open.
“They’ll have it all safely fenced off,” said Robbins.
Councillors unanimously approved the capital expense of $223,000 for Phase II (bowl) of the Stettler Skateboard Park.
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