Construction of the new Stettler Skatepark is set to break ground shortly in West Stettler Park, thanks to the generous donations and fundraising efforts of the community, and a last-minute bridge loan from the Town of Stettler.
At the June 3 Town of Stettler council meeting, Lee Penner, director of parks and services, told council the Skate Park had raised all of the money necessary for the skate park’s construction except for $10,000. However, the window to start building the park this year was growing smaller, and unless the committee could come up with the shortfall, it would have to wait until next year.
Council decided to give the committee the outstanding $10,000 so construction on the new park could break ground this year, but made it clear it was not a donation but a loan to bridge the gap.
The news that construction would be beginning this year was something kids at the current skate park – an outdoor rink with a few rails and jumps installed – greeted with enthusiasm.
“This skatepark sucks,” Jordan Gallard, 11, said. He admitted the town had done well to have something available to skaters, but there was very little for serious aficionados of the sport to do with the current setup.
“I can’t wait for the air I’m going to get,” added Brett Mercier, 12. “There’s only one jump right now and you can’t get more than three feet on it.”
The two said they’re both looking forward to different parts of the park – Mercier can’t wait to enjoy the jumps and the simple length of the courses, and Gallard can’t wait to ride some of the rails.
Construction is slated to begin later this summer.
The park will be located beside the baseball diamond in West Stettler Park, and will be free for all members of the community, regardless of age, to use.