There's a new playground in town, and it's open for everyone.
Ocean Cliff Elementary celebrated the official opening of a new, accessible playground Thursday (June 20) at the school, with an assembly and ribbon-cutting to commemorate the bright, new play area.
Principal Brian Newbold spoke to the gathered students and donors who helped make the all-abilities playground a reality, backed by a video presentation of the steps taken to bring the project to life, from fundraising efforts to breaking ground to the official opening.
"In designing this playground, we have strived to create a space where every child, regardless of ability, can freely play, from wheelchair-accessible ramps to sensory-rich elements," he said, admitting some students had already given the play area a trial run.
"We were fortunate to let some of our students play on the playground for the first time – last week it passed its inspection and safety tests and we didn't want to wait for the grand opening."
Newbold told those assembled how he was amazed at the imaginative play the new recreational area has sparked, which he learned through conversations with Ocean Cliff students.
"This week, I've learned that the playground is also a pirate ship, a Lamborghini, a pizza store and a face-painting booth," he said. "Unfortunately, I do have to report there's a few issues with the wood chips that may turn into lava... and also, shark-infested waters."
A buddy bench and donor recognition sign still need to be installed, he noted, to highlight some of the community donors who helped with the $225,000 cost, which include the Self Advocates of Semiahmoo, Cressey Development, Genex Development, Peace Arch Hospital Foundation, Rotary Club of White Rock, Welbec Properties, and the Huscroft Charitable Trust.
He also praised the playground committee, which included community leads Heather Bitter and Carly Kool, among others, for their dedication to the project.
As well as being wheelchair accessible, the area around the Habitat Systems-built playground was all re-paved to also, help with accessibility, Newbold noted.
"This project... has been made possible by the dedication and support of our community members and generous donors together," he said.
"We've created a place where friendships are formed, (where) laughter will echo and memories will be cherished for years to come."
The playground is open and available for families in the community to enjoy throughout the summer, he added.
