The new playground equipment at the School Admin building is nearly ready for use. Thanks to the hard work of the local Lions Club and other benefactors, the new swings and slides will soon replace the defunct equipment.
The former playground stuff did not pass inspection and was deemed unsafe due to rotting poles and thus removed from the Sixth and Garfield location. This is a playground central to downtown Meeker making walking to the park safe for nearby children.
At a final cost of around $162,000 this endeavor represents a two-year project of research and fund raising. Professionally manufactured and installed by playground experts, some items are accessible for children with physical limitations.
Previously, some 30 years ago, the Lions Cub had installed it themselves, but these days, to comply with regulations, a qualified installer must be in place.
Using various fund-raising approaches, the local group assembled the financing. They applied for and received a grant from the Colorado Health Foundation that included door to door surveys. A donation jar at the summer rodeos garnered as much as $20 bills and lots of change.
Every penny they earn from local social events including bartending, Sheepdog Trial meals, rodeo concessions, Range Call drinks, 100% of the profits go to helping others. If you bought a beer, cola, or lunch at these events, you, too, have supported this project.
Additionally, to the credit of our community, local businesses, the town leaders, the ERBM Rec Center, the local school district, and local citizens have contributed time and expertise to this project. Mike Miller said the most rewarding aspect was the supportive help of all the local entities.
About two years ago the Lions decided to fund the playground and have worked closely with Churchich Construction, a company located in Niwot, Colorado, that specializes in park and school playground provides the equipment and will properly install it.
Complications from COVID and supply chain issues delayed the installation from last November to this spring. Finally, after much research, fund raising, and grant applications the new equipment has arrived and will soon be ready for our children.
This outstanding accomplishment will have an official unveiling and dedication this summer including a plaque honoring the Colorado Health Foundation and supporters.
The local Lions Club includes some 34 members and has a nearly 100-year history in Meeker. Their primary mission is to assist with vision issues including collecting old glasses and helping as they can with folks’ eye surgery or similar needs.
In addition, they support other health concerns and travels of our local youth plus provide scholarships to our students.
I am going to smile every time I drive by that playground and think of all the effort and donations that made it happen. Thank you, Lions Club and all who helped.
With gratitude to Mike Miller and Mike Hoke for their contributions to this article.
By KAYE SULLIVAN – Special to the Herald Times
