Posted 8:51 am Tuesday, December 18, 2012
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Volunteers, financial support sought for Bullard playground project
With about a month to go before the build, representatives with a Bullard playground project are seeking volunteers and financial support.
Volunteers are needed throughout the playground construction, which is slated for Jan. 16 to 20, said Ashlee Jones, chairwoman of the volunteer committee. The days are split into three shifts.
"Right now, we're still trying to get volunteers and organize them into shifts and put them where they're needed," Ms. Jones said, adding that there are various areas where people can serve, including child care, food and the construction itself.
"Anyone who's interested in construction (can volunteer). We would take anyone with highly skilled construction (knowledge) or those who just want to help."
About $50,000 still needs to be raised for the project.
Ms. Jones said fence pickets are on sale for $50 and will be sold until next month's build. Each picket will be on the fence that surrounds the park and will be engraved with a child's name. Some components of the playground also are being sold.
The $315,000 community-built project, temporarily called Bullard Kids' Park, will entail two areas -- one for younger children and one for older children -- on a 2-acre site off Farm-to-Market Road 2493, near the city park.
It will include pavilions, restrooms and misters and feature boat, rocket ship and dragon pieces, among other things.
Installation of playground equipment will take place Jan. 16 to 20, and an estimated 1,200 volunteers will be needed. Once completed, the city of Bullard will be responsible for its repair and maintenance.
Ms. Jones said workers are putting in restroom facilities, and two pavilions are up. She said workers will soon start digging holes for posts, and shortly before the playground build, the poles will be set in concrete. The park is called Bullard Kids' Park but will later officially be named by local students.
"I think it's something like no one has seen in this area. ... And just the community involvement and how it'll bring the community together. I just think it will be a fantastic thing ... for our families," Ms. Jones said.
Bullard Rotary Club member Guy Martin, adviser to the project steering committee, agreed in a previous interview, saying, "This is the style of facility that moms and grandmothers like to be able to bring children to. It's just going to be a big draw for Bullard. It's not only going to be a recreational resource but an economic resource for the community."
Residents who want to volunteer can call 903-707-2183 or find information on the Facebook page www.facebook.com/bullardtexascommunityplayground.
Those who want to donate money can write a check to the East Texas Communities Foundation and mail it to P.O. Box 913, Bullard, Texas 75757.
