Skateboarders have a new place to enjoy their sport in Alfred.
On Saturday, October 26, the new skatepark officially opened at Larocque Park in the village.
The idea for a skatepark in Alfred began with a suggestion from three young residents, Tristan Pomainville, Clovis Duval, and his brother Gabriel Duval, in 2022. The municipal youth committee became involved, along with the local Optimist Club. The Township of Alfred and Plantagenet secured a $145,000 grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation for the project. The Optimist Club contributed $5,000, and the youth committee raised $3,800.
Glengarry-Prescott-Russell Member of Provincial Parliament Stéphane Sarrazin was pleased the Ontario Trillium Foundation, which is an agency of the Ontario government, could contribute to the skatepark project, but he said the real credit goes to the three young people who initiated the effort.
“They’re the ones who came up with the idea. They actually went to the municipal council and said we need something here in Alfred,” Sarrazin said.
Alfred and Plantagenet Mayor Yves Laviolette also thanked the youth for their initiative.
Tristan, Clovis, and Gabriel are pleased with the results of their effort.
“It was hard, but it’s definitely worth it. Now look what we have!” Tristan said.
“It’s exactly what we wanted,” remarked Clovis.
The three youth also appreciate the assistance of Chantal Roy of the Alfred and Plantagenet Youth Committee and township Director of Parks and Recreation Manon Besner for their assistance in making the new Alfred Skatepark possible.
Photos: James Morgan
