New Pickleball Courts at Wilder Park: On Monday, July 22, the Fairmont and District Lions Club proudly marked the completion of two major projects with the grand opening of their new community garden and pickleball courts at Wilder Memorial Park. The park, a beloved local spot, has been enhanced with these new features, adding to its already impressive array of amenities, which includes a memorial garden, trees, picnic tables, a soccer field, volleyball courts, and a horseshoe pitch. The latest additions promise to further enrich the community’s experience at this cherished location.
Community Collaboration
District Lions Club’s past president Lynda Devenish highlighted the overwhelming community support that made these projects possible. “The community really came together to get this done. We had so many volunteers,” Devenish said. Her comments reflect the collaborative spirit that drove the success of the garden and the pickleball courts. The dedication of numerous volunteers shows the communal effort behind these initiatives, showing the strength and unity of the local population.
Pickleball Courts Completion
The pickleball courts, which faced a series of delays over two years, are now fully operational and include a paved walkway connecting them to the parking lot. The courts are available for public use, with posted rules to ensure a positive experience for all players. Devenish praised the quality of the new facilities, stating, “I’m told by pickleball players that they are the best in the Columbia Valley.” The courts were originally projected to cost around $67,000, but due to complications such as a high water table, the final expenditure rose to approximately $130,000.
Community Garden Development
The community garden project, which took 14 months to complete, saw more than 50 Lions members and community volunteers contribute their time and effort. The garden features 20 garden boxes, a gazebo, a water well, a picnic table, chairs, tools, a shed, a generator, and deer fencing. This space will provide residents with the opportunity to grow their plants and vegetables.
“It was a wonderful sight to see so many community members out for the construction of the deer fence, all pulling the wire into place,” Devenish commented. Garden boxes are free this year, having already been planted by volunteers. Starting next year, they will be rented out to help cover ongoing maintenance costs.
Fundraising Efforts
The creation of the community garden followed a meeting last summer organized by current Lions president Joy Smith, where over 20 residents expressed strong interest in the project. Fundraising efforts included a recycling drive and a golf challenge at the Riverside course, which played a crucial role in supporting the financial needs of the garden. The total cost for the community garden was approximately $28,000, reflecting the significant investment made by the Lions Club and the community.
Reflecting on Success
Devenish expressed her pride in the outcomes of both projects: “We are proud of these projects, they’ve turned out well.” The pickleball courts and the community garden not only enhance the recreational options available at Wilder Memorial Park but also stand as a testament to the collaborative efforts of the Fairmont and District Lions Club and the local community. The successful completion of these projects highlights the dedication and spirit of those involved and promises to offer lasting benefits to the residents of Fairmont.
News in Brief: New Pickleball Courts at Wilder Park
On July 22, the Fairmont and District Lions Club celebrated the completion of two major projects at Wilder Memorial Park: new pickleball courts and a community garden. The pickleball courts, which took two years to build and cost about $130,000, feature a paved walkway and are praised as the best in the Columbia Valley.
The community garden, completed in 14 months at $28,000, includes 20 garden boxes, a gazebo, and various amenities, with boxes available for free this year and to be rented out next year. Both projects reflect significant community involvement and fundraising efforts.
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