PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — A local business has become the first to make a significant donation to the new Riverside Park Playground.
Hampton Inn of Presque Isle has donated the first $2,500 toward the project.
“We are delighted to contribute to the new playground as it is beneficial to the area and for all local children,” said Adam Cyr, the hotel’s general manager.
The construction of this new park is being led by the Presque Isle Kiwanis Club, Presque Isle Rotary Club, United Way of Aroostook and the City of Presque Isle. The collaborative group launched their campaign to bring inclusive safe play to the Riverside Park area in October. This new community project has a goal of raising $250,000 to create the first adaptive playground in the Star City.
“We’re thankful for the ongoing support we get from our business partners and their support is vital to this project,” said Kiwanian Carla Cambridge. “The playground is an important component to our beautiful community center, Riverside Park, and our downtown. It will provide an inclusive play area for children and families including handicap accessible options. The community center and Riverside Park serves our local communities who in turn, support our business partners.“
The Hampton Inn has challenged other businesses in the community to match their donation. Jan Lucas, director of sales at the hotel says, “This joyful addition will be a destination attraction not only to locals, but to families from other County towns, which can only bring increased revenue to local businesses.”
Solicitation letters have been sent out to members and businesses in the community asking for their support. Those letters include a brochure that details the project and ways to give. City Manager Martin Puckett said people may contact City Hall or any of the collaborating organizations for information or to donate.
“Donations can also be sent directly to the city, made payable to Presque Isle Community Development Association) to the attention of the Playground Project,” Puckett said.
Brochures about the project are available in the Rotary Club’s Auction Store located at the Aroostook Centre Mall.
Clint Deschene, this year’s Rotary Auction chair, said, “The store will be open on Saturdays and Sundays starting on Nov. 18. Saturday hours are 10 to 2:30 and Sundays 11 to 3. We will also be open on Black Friday, 9:30 to 2:30. Stop in and bid on items, make a donation, buy a 50/50 ticket, and more. Our store is an excellent way to see all the businesses and organizations that are coming together to make our community a better place.”
Organizers expect the playground project to get underway next summer.
“In coordination with the other wonderful recreational improvements over the last few years,” said Chris Beaulieu, director of Recreation and Parks, “this playground is essentially the last piece in making the entire area, truly a special place for our kids and families.”
