LeBourdais Park is getting some permanent sunblock.
Construction crews are underway on some small but vital structures the public has been asking for.
“There are three shade structures being installed – two at the playground and one at the spray park,” said Teann Fung, communications clerk with the City of Quesnel.
The work so far is to set the footings for the structures that will soon provide a spot for families to get some respite from the sun and rain if they are at the park in times of intense weather.
“The shades provide cool and reliable shade for any play, rest and activity,” said Fung. “They are designed to block up to 97 percent of the sun’s UV rays and keep area temperatures up to 30 degrees cooler.”
The budget for these structures was pegged at $125,000, following a public consultation process that had 345 respondents. The desire for shade was ranked third in the public’s wish for upgrades at LeBourdais Park’s spray park area, but it was the first one that pertained to safety. (First and second pertained to more seating areas and picnic tables.)
Likewise, when respondents gave feedback on the overall park facility, shade factored into the second and fourth most popular wishes.
“They are expected to be installed this month,” said Fung. “The community gave their insight into potential upgrades to LeBourdais Park in late 2021. Based on the community’s feedback, three shades are being installed.”
LeBourdais Park is the city’s most popular civic outdoor facility, also including a bandstand, baseball park, the museum and visitor centre, and close proximity to many other local features which all make it a significant asset to downtown.
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