Construction is underway on Phase two of the Smithers Skatepark Expansion Project.
This phase introduces a new eight-foot bowl to the park, along with a bench and sign showcasing some of the organization who’ve contributed to the project.
“The Smithers Skatepark Society is excited to be moving it forward, but it’s really turned into a community initiative,” said Director Jake Daly.
“The further we’ve gone along this path; the more people have been hopping on to help move the ball forward so it’s exciting to see how much use the extension is getting and how many people are rallying behind us.”
Construction is expected to cost about $550,000 but could go up.
“The only thing about that is we were quoted by all our contractors and material suppliers in 2021, so as we search and look for updated quotes, we’re expecting to see a 20 per cent increase on average,” said Daly.
More fundraising may be required to cross the finish line for this phase, and he confirmed the group is thinking of opportunities for later this year.
Phase three is projected to begin Summer of 2025 and includes a trail to the skatepark from the existing system, a water bottle filling station, and potentially a permanent washroom.