Lindsay’s first permanent skatepark opens at BGC
On Tuesday, MPP Laurie Scott and MP Jamie Schmale met with BGC Kawarthas (formerly the Boys and Girls Club of Kawartha) participants, sponsors and partners gathered today to officially open Lindsay’s first permanent skatepark at BGC Kawartha’s facility at 107 Lindsay Street South.
The park was built with the help of a $475,000 Community Building Fund – Capital grant awarded in late 2021 by the Government of Ontario and the Ontario Trillium Fund, a non-repayable contribution of $396,750 from the Government of Canada through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), and a contribution of $36,000 from the families of Dominic and John Fox.
“The new skatepark is a fantastic addition to our community and will be a hub where youth can gather to participate in social sports like skateboarding and biking,” said local MPP Laurie Scott. “This is a long-awaited project for Lindsay and I’m thrilled this grant has been able to bring the project to life with the help and guidance of BGC Kawarthas.”
“Congratulations to the team at the Boys and Girls Clubs of Kawartha Lakes on the opening of your new skate park on Lindsay Street. The one-of-a-kind skatepark that you have built will be a place for all ages to learn, practice, and enjoy for years. The Government of Canada is thrilled to support projects that build communities and give children a place to play,” said Filomena Tassi, minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario).
Jamie Schmale, local MP, added his congratulations to the Club for the successful development of the project.
A $100,000 bequest to BGC Kawarthas from the families of Dominic and John Fox allowed for the final completion of the park with $36,000 of the bequest used for lighting of the skatepark. “Our family has deep respect for the work BGC Kawarthas does to support children and youth in our community – that’s why we have been loyal supporters of the Club’s programs over the years,” says John Fox. “My father Dom would be happy to know that we’ve been able to “light” the new skatepark so that it is safer and more accessible for the athletes.” The remaining Fox bequest will be used to help support programs at the Club.
The official opening event included a ribbon cutting with donors as well as a demonstration by the professional skateboard team 66 thieves, under the direction of Lindsay’s own Yokohi Calver, a former Club participant and nationally recognized skateboarder, tricks by BMX rider Carder Lake and friends, recognition of mural artist Jess Spagnolo, and announcements about upcoming programs being offered by BGC Kawarthas. The event was supported by donors Linborough Property Corp., LP Movers, A Buy and Sell Shop and New Line Skateparks Inc.
The new park is compatible with scooters, BMX bikes and skateboards, and will be available seven days a week for club participants and the public – specific hours will be reserved for club programs.
“The cement was barely dry when more youth began to arrive at the Club, creating opportunities to engage with our staff and other youth services programs and increasing our regular attendance to record levels,” says Amy Terrill, executive director of BGC Kawarthas. “We look forward to learning more about the youth who bring their skateboards, scooters and BMX bikes to the park so that we can offer them additional support in a safe and respectful environment.”
The following are some of the activities planned for this year:
- Skateboarding and Swim Camp – August 21 – 25 (register bgckawarthas.com) supported by Linborough Property Corp.
- Skateboarding Certification Course – details to come
- Drop-in Skateboarding for Beginners – details to come
