A park in Ste. Agathe is entering phase two of fundraising efforts to improve the outdoor space and make it a meeting spot for the entire community.

The second phase of improvements at Parc Belle Rivière started in April with their Sponsor a Tree program, through which people can sponsor a tree for $100, with all proceeds going towards the park. For every tree sponsored, one name will be recognized on the donor sign at the park, making it a unique way to recognize or honour a loved one.

“We wanted to find a way to get individuals involved in phase two of our project,” says Danielle Robert, who sits on the Parc Belle Rivière committee. “It’s amazing to see community members not only show personal support, but also financial commitment towards our community projects.”

The park’s goal is to have 100 trees sponsored and raise $10,000 through this fundraising effort by June 30. So far, the committee has collected donations for approximately 40 trees and have received pledges for numerous others. They aim to start the improvements in 2020.

Phase one of the project was completed in 2015 with the addition of a play structure and swing set. They held fundraising efforts, such as events at the town’s Cheyenne Days festival, as well as bud, spud, and steak dinners.

Proposed improvements for phase two, which is estimated to cost $45,000, include general landscaping to improve the park’s overall aesthetic, a ninja-style obstacle course, an asphalt bike path, as well as the addition of a picnic shelter.

“We decided to add the picnic shelter to provide families with a great place to gather, the obstacle course to attract older kids to the park, and the bike path to add something completely new that the town doesn’t offer at any other park,” explains Robert. “We want to enhance the natural beauty of the park by doing additional landscaping work. Overall, we want the park to offer something for everyone to enjoy for years to come. The changes to the park will positively impact the community as they will improve our local park to become a better gathering place for the community. There will be something for everyone.”