Submitted by School District 8
Outdoor recreation in Salmo is about to get even better with plans underway for improvements to the town’s current sports courts and skate park facilities.
The tennis courts are currently unusable with uneven asphalt that is not safe to play on, and the skate park is in an unappealing state of disrepair. Improvements and upgrades to these recreational spaces aim to re-establish these places as fun and appealing for the whole community. The spaces are also within short walking distances from both Salmo schools.
The estimated $135,000 project will include a restoration of the tennis courts, the addition of three pickleball courts and a half basketball court, and the renewal of the outdoor skate park.
School District 8, along with Columbia Basin Trust, the Village of Salmo, Recreation Commission for Salmo and RDCK Area G, and the RDCK Area G have committed $100,000 out of the estimated $135,000 total cost for the project.
“We want to recognize the many partners that have stepped up to invest in this important project that will benefit this community in so many ways,” said School District 8 trustee Susan Chew.
“Together, our common values in education, fitness and the importance of instilling a sense of community pride for our shared spaces, are working to help restore an area that is not being used to its full potential at present.”
The project is on land next to the community pool and across the street from both Salmo Secondary school and the Salmo Valley Youth Community Centre, all together forming a hub of community activities.
The opportunity remains for further financial contributions to come from the community, local business and any interested groups that want to be involved.
“We invite any interested group that wants to contribute to this amazing community building project to join us,’ says Chew. “We are still looking for more partners to help with things like donations for player benches, water bottle filling stations and a storage shed.”
From a school perspective, additional outdoor activities for students in high-quality facilities will enhance learning experiences.
The school district is especially grateful for the support and guidance that has come from the Nelson Tennis Club, in particular Rob Wright and Keith Bridger, who have been generous with their consultative time.
The timeline for breaking ground will begin with surveyors onsite in April and the aim for project completion is currently set for early August 2021.
