THUNDER BAY – Construction is now fully underway on the new playground and adult fitness centre at Boulevard Lake and while work began just earlier this week, crews have already made significant progress on the future playground.
The playground, which will be over 1,000 square meters, had its costs covered mostly by the Canadian Tire Jumpstart Program, which pitched in $750,000. The city covered the remaining $250,000.
Werner Schwar, supervisor of Parks & Open Spaces Planning, says that what has many in the community excited about the playground is the accessibility aspect, with it being wheelchair friendly and including recreation for all kids.
"There's lots of different activities for different ranges and abilities, so it's not just accessible but it's also inclusive,” he said. “So kids that have mobility challenges or cognitive challenges, the playground designed to be able to play with the other kids rather than segregating them out."
The project also includes an adult fitness centre located directly next to the playground and a beach volleyball area with a net that can be lowered for those with mobility issues, or who prefer to sit and play.
Schwar says that once everything is open in a few months, it will be a great hub for family fun.
"I think it will be a great addition to Boulevard, there's already a lot for families to do there,” he said “Parents of older kids, they can do some exercise at the same time their kids are playing on the playground. And of course, we have the beach area where we'll be adding an accessible pathway there."
The grand opening of the playground, adult fitness centre, and beach volleyball area is set for September.
