New skate park in Hanmer takes flight

There were bikes, scooters, plenty of smiles and a few skinned knees on Saturday in Hanmer as the revamped Lions Playground was officially unveiled.

Under sunny skies and warm temperatures, the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the skate park was led by Ward 6 Coun. Andre Rivest, who's also deputy mayor.

Rivest helped pay for the renovations through his $50,000 healthy community initiative fund, which each councillor can spend each year on eligible projects in his or her ward.

The park now has ramps and other skateboard infrastructure, even if none of the 25-30 kids on hand for the official opening were riding an old-fashioned skateboard. Most preferred scooters, also small bikes were popular, as well.