With the completion of Presque Isle’s new recreation center now begins phase two of the revitalization plan that began a few years back.
Last week, city leaders spoke with contractors to begin work on constructing a splash pad on the north side of the unused Riverside Park building.
The construction of the splash pad will mean the removal of the aging Riverside Park playground equipment in that area, as well as renovations to the Riverside building, turning it into a pump room, along with the addition of bathrooms.
“Now we’re at the time where we can get this project done,” Parks and Recreation Director Chris Beaulieu said. “I think it’s going to be a phenomenal project, I think people are going to love it.”
The new splash pad will feature water activities for toddlers, all the way up to pre-teens.
Just like the splash pad, the new playground equipment will entertain a range of ages from toddlers to preteens at Presque Isle’s Riverside Park. It will also include benches and picnic tables overlooking Presque Isle Stream. (Contributed)
“(This) may not be a pool replacement, but will provide recreation and activities for youth and possibly over a six-month period of the year than a two-month period that a pool generally meets,” City Councilor Craig Green said.
There’s no new expense to the city to cover the estimated $227,000 splash pad, according to Green. The funds for the splash pad are part of a bond package Presque Isle issued when funding the new community center.
“We are very excited, I’m just thrilled,” Green said.
The city hopes to complete the new splash pad by the end of this summer.
Since the new splash pad will take the place of the aging playground equipment, civic leaders have come together to compliment the splash pad project with brand new playground equipment for popular park destination on the banks of Presque Isle Stream.
“We really think that’s where the kids and families are going to be so we want them to have a beautiful park,” United Way of Aroostook executive director Sherry Locke said. “It really is one of the most beautiful places in Presque Isle.”
The United Way of Aroostook, the Presque Isle Kiwanis Club and the Presque Isle Rotary Club have come together to raise funds for the new equipment.
“The Presque Isle Kiwanis Club are working on a grant through their foundation and the Presque Isle Rotary is designating their money from this year’s Rotary Auction to that project,” Locke said. “Everyone is kind of bringing their own strength and together we’ll complete the project.”
Just like the splash pad, the new playground equipment will entertain a range of ages from toddlers to preteens. It will also include benches and picnic tables.
Residents can expect the new playground equipment later next year.
