Shovel-ready Williams Lake skatepark redevelopment begins seeking backers

Best said the park is designed to be enjoyed by anyone who wants to use it, with considerations for accessibility.

“Skateparks have a pretty diverse user base from different ages and skill levels to riders of different types,” said Best.

“We feel our design takes into account the varied user base. It also takes into account geotechnical and archeological considerations on the site.”

The Williams Lake Skateboard Association has ongoing partnerships with the City of Williams Lake, the Cariboo Regional District and Williams lake first nation.

Rough estimates pin the total cost of the park between $1,978,500 and $2,300,500, with the lower end counting on a one-phase approach.

“We are now at the funding stage, we’re seeking funding from local business partners as well as grant funding to get this thing built,” said Best.

“[$2 million] is the upper cost, as these costs will come down by using local providers and seeing in-kind donations of materials to bring that cost down.”

Williams Lake Skateboard Association spokesperson Jane Wellburn said the park will be a fixture of the community if it’s built.

“Skateboarding provides a healthy and accessible option for physical activity for everyone, particularly youth. Skateparks are increasingly destination recreation facilities that provide a space for all wheels,” said Wellburn.

“Our intent is to raise as much as we can to cover the cost of the park. In-kind labour and martials will bring down our total costs, grants and donations will bring it down further still, but at some point we’re going to come back to city council and say we’ve raised X amount, and we need a contribution from the city of capital funds.”

City officials said council endorsed the project, with a promise to help fundraising efforts, grant writing and plan development.

by Elora McCormack

Shovel-ready Williams Lake skatepark redevelopment begins seeking backers

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