Click this image to view a gallery of images that illustrate the layout, and selected play equipment to go into this project.

The three Rotary clubs of Salmon Arm have united to take on a fantastic new project in the city of Salmon Arm.  Over the next three years they will be fundraising, grant seeking, and planning a new playground structure for Blackburn Park.  It will be the city's first universally accessible playground - integrating children of all abilities socially, physically, and emotionally.

The playground will also be accompanied by outdoor exercise stations, where people of all ages can meet for healthy exercise and to play together.  Located centrally, the facility will be great for families attending the various events that happen in the area, and it also provides an ideal place for the grandparents residing in the downtown area to play with their grandchildren.

The playground will be built in close proximity to the new concession and washroom facilities, which are scheduled to be built this summer. 

The project is, of course, actively seeking the support of other local service organizations, corporate & private donors, and grants, in this opportunity to improve upon Blackburn Park.

It is anticipated that the project will be completed over the next three years, with the Rotary groups doing their fundraising and grant seeking in the first year, and planning for construction of the playground to happen in the summer of 2011.  At that time, the playground will be assembled by a team of Rotarian workers and community volunteers, who will be directed by qualified installers from the manufacturers of the play equipment.  The third year will see the finishing details such as landscaping, site furnishings, and the exercise stations addressed.

With the 2010 - 2011 Theme for Rotary International being Building Communities -- Bridging Continents, it is fitting that the three club president kicked off their year of presidency with a project that will most certainly bridge gaps and build a stronger sense of community as they join together to recognize the importance of all citizens in Salmon Arm.

To watch a video that explains the "universally accessible" playground concept, please watch Shane's Inspiration. 

We will have project specific information available here soon, so check back for projected site plans, and equipment lists.