Gillett’s 70-year-old playground equipment and other iterations will soon be relegated to the past as the city broke ground July 7 on a new $1 million playground at Zippel Park being paid for by a Community Development Block Grant.
The project is being handled by 8Pine, a relatively new construction firm based in Shawano who has impressed a number of entities in the last two years with its work. Besides the new playground, the CDBG funding will also help to build new restroom facilities at the park.
Alderman Jerry Luther told about 50 people in attendance at the groundbreaking ceremony that the new playground will be more inclusive for children of all abilities, as the previous one had been built at a time before the Americans with Disabilities Act came into existence.
“Look around. See what it is now,” Luther said. “This playground is over 70 years old. Now imagine what it will be — a vibrant, inclusive playground for all to play on. Today is much more than the start of a construction project. It is the beginning of a place where children can laugh, families can gather, friendships will grow and memories will be made for generations to come.”
Parks are at the heart of any community, but especially Gillett, according to Luther. Besides the neighbor component in bringing friends and family together and making everyone feel welcome, parks also promote healthy lifestyles through play and exercise, he said.
“This new playground reflects our investing in the future of Gillett and providing a safe, fun and inclusive place for children and families to enjoy,” Luther said.
He added that the work by the Gillett City Council, the city’s parks committee and other entities have resulted in a long period of planning to make the park the best that it can be for the community. There has been a lot of enthusiasm by residents for the new playground, and it is because of those people that the city was able to break ground.
“Your hard work and commitment have brought us to this exciting day,” Luther said. “This playground is being built for you, for our children, grandchildren, neighbors, visitors, everyone who will enjoy it for years to come. We’re laying the ground for countless adventures, new friendships, birthday celebrations, family picnics and joyful afternoons at Zippel Park.”
Luther noted that donations are still being accepted for the playground project through the Friends of Gillett.
Bert Pieper, one of the founders of 8Pine, said his company is proud to be handling a project that will benefit Gillett for years to come.
“Parks like this are more than places,” Pieper said. “We appreciate the trust you place in our team. At 8Pine, we believe in building projects that leave a lasting impact. We are committed to delivering this park safely with quality, integrity and pride. We’re excited to get this project and to celebrate with you all again when the project is complete.
lpulaski@newmedia-wi.com
Gillett Alderman Jerry Luther talks about what the new playground will mean to the community during a groundbreaking ceremony July 8 at Zippel Park as the old playground equipment is set up behind him. The project is being paid for through $1 million of Community Development Block Grant funding. (Lee Pulaski | NEW Media)
