Local couple make contribution to parks
By: Adrian Alleyne | Posted: 08/3/2011 3:11 AM
Regan (left) and Geoff Archambault are donating $120,000 of their own money to make improvements to Archambault Park, formerly Harbour View South Park.
Geoff and Regan Archambault saw a need in their community and decided to do something about it.
"We always feel a need to give back to the community," Geoff said. "A park is a great place for families to meet and have fun."
The Archambaults have committed $120,000 of their own money to improve Harbour View South Park at the corner of Rutledge Crescent and McLellan Drive. The city is contributing $25,000 while the province will provide an additional $30,000.
Improvements will include a picnic shelter, play structure for younger kids, new benches, 35 new trees, and improved drainage in the swing area.
Work on the project is expected to start in September or October.
"We’re trying to make it more age-friendly. Right now it’s geared towards kids aged six to 12," Regan said.
The park was renamed Archambault Park in June to recognize the family’s contributions to the project. To celebrate the upcoming renovations, the Archambaults staged a movie screening on July 23.
According to Geoff, 250 residents from the community came out to enjoy the day, which concluded with a screening of Rio.
Area resident Reid Kenyon took in the event and said the Archambaults are making a much-needed contribution to the community.
"The parks in our area are outdated and in desperate need of a facelift," Kenyon said. "The investment they are providing in improving our parks will enhance the quality of life."
In addition to donating the money to improve the park in Harbour View South, the Archambaults also plan to donate $30,000 to upgrade Sunrise Park, located down the street on Shauna Way.
The Sunrise Park upgrade will also receive $20,000 from the city and $10,000 from the Rotary Club of Winnipeg East AM, which Geoff currently serves as president of.
"You can’t wait for someone else to do it," Regan said. "When you see the need and have the means, you should do it."
The couple is hoping that the renovations will entice more people to get outside and enjoy the parks in their neighbourhood.
"It is very important to have parks and recreational offerings for our kids close to home," Kenyon said. "Families will want to spend time together at these parks."