Ukee kids will soon be able to sail the high seas while staying safe and dry at their local Village Green.
The town’s municipal council unanimously approved a $290,000, plus GST, contract with Mill Bay based Kinsol Timber Systems Ltd. to build a nautical themed playground as part of the Village Green revitalization project.
Director of Parks and Recreation Abby Fortune presented the new playground proposal during council’s July 18 regular meeting, noting the project will be paid for entirely from the district’s Resort Municipality Initiative funding.
She explained the district put the playground project up for public bid and was delighted to receive eight “fabulous” proposals, noting Kinsol’s best fit with the feedback received during a public engagement process.
She said a tower play sculpture, slide, swing, climbing, balance and natural play structures topped the list of desirable attributes, adding a keen eye was also placed on “uniqueness” and “Ukee grit.”
The playground will include a shipwreck inspired climbing and parkour course with sections suitable for toddlers as well as more challenging levels for kids 6 and older.
“The Crowsnest provides a higher elevation for the more adventurous and risk tolerant children, while also providing a hiding place for those who may wish to escape the noise and chaos below,” Fortune wrote in a report submitted to council.
The playground will also feature a tower with a two-metre high platform, a spider-web net and swings.
Mayor Marilyn McEwen asked about a timeline for the playground getting going and Fortune explained it will likely begin in the spring.
“It will take a little bit of a process because they handmake everything that they do because they’re very specific to the landscape area,” Fortune said. “My goal is to get it going for Whale Festival next year. Hopefully midMarch, that’s what I’m pushing for.”
Council unanimously approved the contract.
“I can’t wait to climb the Crownest,” Coun. Jennifer Hoar laughed.
“Me first,” quipped Fortune.
“I can beat you there,” Hoar retorted.
“True enough,” Fortune acknowledged.
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