The Town of Canton Recreation Commission is leading a volunteer effort to make safety improvements to the playground at Recreation Park, a popular destination.  The project will include slide repairs, mulching, painting and construction of a wooden border and perimeter fence system.  

According to Canton Alderman Zeb Smathers, the project fulfills a shared goal of the town’s governing board.

“As a Board, we are committed to harnessing the power of recreation to sustain and grow our community,” Smathers said.

Jake Robinson, chair of the Recreation Commission and chief operating officer of Champion Credit Union, agrees. He acknowledged the important support role the commission must play in the effort.  

“This effort represents a renewed energy from the Recreation Commission,” Robinson said. “We are taking a more active role in enhancing the town’s park system.  Our new mantra is ‘let’s get things done.’”

The Commission is seeking $10,000 in donations to cover the cost of materials and supplies. Eight hundred dollars of the funding will be “crowdfunded ”— a new community fundraising model that uses an online donation platform. Additional crowdfunding challenges may be established once the first goal is reached.  

There are four sponsorship levels available, but any donation amount is welcome. All donors will be recognized on a plaque, which will be installed at the playground.

The renovation will take place in early spring during a series of planned workdays for which the public will be invited to participate.  To donate to the project or sign up to volunteer, visit www.citizinvestor.com/project/canton-rec-tunnel-slide or call 828.648.2363.