New play structure chosen by kids in Ile des Chenes

A new play structure officially opened in Ile des Chenes on Aug. 21, was chosen by children from the community.

Located at Parc D’Auteuil Park, the new structure was unveiled as part of Rec on the Road celebrations featuring games, crafting and sports.

RM of Ritchot director of recreation Melissa Larter said the new structure replaces a dirt hill and an old wood climbing structure.

She said it’s important to Ile des Chenes.

“This is the only community play structure,” she said. “The other ones are on school property so there was really nothing for the community who are here during the day or when school’s going on.”

The idea of building a playground has been around for several years but the $155,000 project moved forward after they secured provincial funding for one third of the cost through the “From the Ground Up” funding program.

Larter said allowing local children to choose the design came after their request for proposals resulted in three strong candidates.

“We thought why not go to the kids and see what they would like to choose,” she said.

The RM made presentations in local schools, which Larter said sparked some great debate.

“We had great conversations about accessibility, what games they could play, just really what they wanted to see in the space,” she said.

Larter said a space like this means a lot to a community.

“It’s a great opportunity to just allow kids to get together and also community members, just really giving them the opportunity to connect here, meet their neighbours, make them feel like they’re part of the community,” she said.

The structure includes ramp access to the lower level where kids will find a variety of sensory features.

The swing set features an accessible swing as well as a couple of baby swings, something that was absent from Ile des Chenes until now.

There is also a bilingual communication board, a feature Larter said was inspired by Winnipeg parks.

RM of Ritchot Ward 1 councillor Shane Pelletier, who represents the Ile des Chenes area, told people gathered at the opening that playgrounds are much more than just places to play.

“They are spaces where children build confidence, develop relationships, stay active and create lasting memories,” he said. “They are gathering places that bring families together and help strengthen the sense of community that makes our municipality such a special place to live.”