Norkem Park has a new park for play.
The playground on James Wright Avenue looks brand new after renovations done by the metro left it with neatly cut grass, concrete cylinders to warden off uninvited vehicles, and brand new gym equipment. It’s old jungle gyms and swings were also re-painted in bright colours.
The park was officially opened by ward Clr Desmond Mckenzie on Saturday morning. Despite the chilly weather, local children were excited to start playing. So much so that they took it upon themselves to remove the tape around the swings left over from the paint job. Soon after, their fun was in full swing.
“It is important to have such a park,” Mckenzie told Express. “It is for the community. Families can relax and kids can play in safety.”
With Norkem Park Police Station only a stone’s throw away from the park, Mckenzie is hopeful that criminals will stay clear.
Soon after, the kids swopped the swings for the new gym equipment at the edge of the park. As they ran, swung and twisted, exercise truly looked like child’s play.
But this park is not just for children.
“The park is for everyone,” Mckenzie said.
“People can have fun and stay fit. They must take ownership of the park and take care of it.”
He added that residents must feel free to report any suspicious activity so the park can stay as inviting as it is now.
