The small community of Cache Bay, with a population of 1,100, is the latest in the area to get a splash pad.
The project consisted of the construction of a new playground and splash park located on West Nipissing municipal grounds at the Cache Bay Community Centre.
The initiative has been led by a community volunteer group called the Cache Bay Park Committee. The community of Cache Bay had identified, through community planning, the need for a community family park in order to provide optimum opportunities for physical activity, and for family enjoyment in a safe and central community setting.
Since Cache Bay has seen an increase of approximately 14% in population with more than 160 or its 1,100 residents under the age of 18, the need for this type of outdoor facility was obvious.
Through fundraising efforts and partnerships, the group has raised well over $45,000 in funds and in in-kind services, with the Municipality of West Nipissing contributing $40,000 and an additional $15,000 in in-kind services.
In September of 2015, the Municipality applied for funding for the park initiative and received word in December of the same year that the initiative had been approved for a grant contribution of $125,000 from the Ontario Trillium Foundation. Work then began to lay out the plans for the park and construction started early in the summer of 2016 and was completed in early this August.
“I would like to congratulate the local volunteers who worked so hard to make this project a reality," said John Vanthof, MPP for Timiskaming – Cochrane. "The Ontario Trillium Foundation also deserves special recognition because it funds projects that build the spirit of communities. Young families are the spirit and future of Cache Bay.”
Joanne Savage, Mayor for the Municipality of West Nipissing added, “The Cache Bay Splash Park and Playground is a testament to who we are how we enjoy life in West Nipissing. We recognize the generous contribution from the Ontario Trillium Foundation that has brought this project to life! This initiative, led in part by the Cache Bay Park Committee, the many volunteers and the Municipality of West Nipissing provides opportunities for physical activity and is located in a safer, more accessible environment. This new park will provide enjoyment for families, residents and future residents for years to come.”
Other splash pads in the area are located in Callander and Sundridge.
