The Merrill Noon Optimists put up a fund raising gauge at Normal Park last week as they intensify their efforts to construct an all-inclusive playground at the park.
Through mostly private donations, the Optimists have thus far raised over $65,000 toward a goal of $175,000 to complete the first phase of the project. The playground will be accessible to all children, including those with handicaps.
The completed playground will feature 42 play events, capable of accommodating 187 users ages five to 12. The playground will occupy an area of 114×65 feet at the southwest corner of Normal Park.
According to Optimists president Carrie Kennedy, the group will now start the grant writing process as it seeks larger donations.
The Magic Paper Boxes, which appeared around Merrill last year, continue to be a fund raising source for the playground project. Merrill residents are asked to deposit their newspapers, magazines and junk mail in the boxes, with the recycling proceeds to benefit the playground. Boxes are located at Cenex, the Eagles Club, Jenny Towers, Dave’s County Market, the Sixth Ward Holiday station and Pine Ridge Mobil. Some local businesses have also raised funds or made donations to the project. A portion of the Optimist cheese curd sales also go toward the playground fund.
Phase I of the project will cover the major pieces of play equipment and the rubber matting play surface. The city of Merrill has agreed to donate the site prep work and Peterson Sand & Gravel has agreed to donate the fill material.
Kennedy said the Optimists plan to break ground on the playground next year.