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Positive Ageing Week

WOULD you like to take a trip down memory lane at the movies, dance an afternoon away or try your hand at Short Mat Bowling or Pickleball?

 

There are just some of the activities included in an action packed programme of events compiled by Waterford Older People’s Council, Waterford Sports Partnership and Waterford Libraries which are taking place in the city and county to mark Positive Ageing Week which takes place on the week commencing Monday October 2.

Positive Ageing Week kicks off with a classic movie morning at Carrickphierish Library at 10.30am, while at The Hub at Central Library an electronic textiles fabric flower workshop  takes place between 10am and 1pm.

Sports enthusiasts can choose from a Pickleball Taster Session between 2 and 4pm at Cill Barra Sports Centre on October 2, or Short Mat Bowling at the same venue also on Tuesday from 10.30am to 12 noon. Out on your feet an epic walk through 1100 years of history from the Vikings to the Victorians is highly recommended. Meeting place is Bishop’s Palace. A fee of €4 applies and booking should be made by calling Waterford Council on 086 152 9799.

It’s back to Carrickphierish Library on Wednesday for a Smart Phone class for beginners from 1am to 12 noon and the following morning at 10.30 there’s a second chance to check out what’s on the big screen for what promises to be another great Movie Morning.

Each year the Tea Dance at the Sacred Heart Parish Centre is eagerly anticipated and again this year Waterford’s senior citizens are invited alone to enjoy afternoon tea with music and – of course plenty of dancing between 2pm and 5pm.

Demand is expected to be high for all activities so booking is advised through Waterford Sports Partnership by calling 087 739 6050 or email lmcenaney@waterfordsportspartnership.ie For events to be held in local libraries phone 051 849626 or email jloughran@waterfordcouncil.ie Bookings can be made for the Tea Dance at the Sacred Heart Centre, The Folly by calling 089 251 1047 or by email to waterfordopc2019@gmail.com

Rás na mBan Waterford Stage launched in Tramore

For the first time in its 17-year history, Rás na mBan, Ireland’s only women’s international bike stage race, has introduced a Waterford stage to its five-day schedule, which takes place from September 6th to 10th.

     

The 2023 edition of the race is the 17th under the title of Rás na mBan and the 36th annual international stage race for women in Ireland. In its current format it runs for five days and six stages totalling over 400km of racing action.

The 102.7km stage of the race will leave Tramore at 12 noon on Saturday, September 9th and travel through Kilmeaden and Kilmacthomas, on to Dungarvan, before returning along the Copper Coast to the finish line on the Prom in Tramore at approximately 2.40pm.

Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Joe Conway welcomed Rás na mBan to Waterford saying, “We are delighted that Waterford will feature as a stage for this prestigious international bike race.  It’s a wonderful opportunity for us to showcase the idyllic, challenging and breath-taking scenery not only to the riders, but to spectators of the world.  We are looking forward to welcoming the riders and supporters to Waterford for what is regarded as the premier international women’s stage race.”

The mayor added, “I would particularly like to thank the Rás na mBan committee for including Waterford in the route this year.  I’d also like to commend the vision of Waterford City and County Council and its elected representatives in working with the race committee and attracting top class women’s bike racing to the Déise.”

Race Director, Valerie Considine said, “It’s our great pleasure and privilege to bring Rás na mBan to Waterford for the first time. It’s a county with an unrivalled heritage in Irish cycle racing and the route we have selected is among the most beautiful and challenging in the history of the race.

“We’re very grateful to everyone in Waterford City and County Council for their help in making this stage possible and we’re sure that our riders and supporters will enjoy a great day of racing on the Copper Coast. We look forward to seeing fans from all over Waterford and beyond out to support these world class athletes on the race route and at the finish in Tramore.”

Fergus Galvin, Director of Services, Waterford City and County Council commended the race organisers for including a Waterford stage in this year’s race.

“Rás na mBan is undoubtedly a top-class international stage race.  The addition of a Waterford stage to the route will give world-class riders from across Europe, the US, Africa and Asia a new demanding route to compete on for the penultimate day.  It also provides the opportunity for them to experience one of the country’s most spectacular backdrops, the Copper Coast.”

The 2023 running of the event begins on Wednesday September 6th with six stages taking place over five days.

This year the route offers a variety of challenges from testing hilly stages including the stage four climb of ‘The Cut’ in the Slieve Bloom Mountains in County Laois followed by the demanding Tramore stage in County Waterford on the penultimate day to the stage five-time trial on Sunday where riders will ride solo against the watch on the new Kilkenny Castle course.

For details about the Rás na mBan and the 2023 route visit https://rasnamban.com

 

Homecoming for Waterford Senior Camógie All-Ireland finalists

Following a resolute performance against Cork in Croke Park today, a homecoming celebration for Waterford Senior Camogie All-Ireland finalists will take place in Waterford city tomorrow (Monday, August 7th).

Announcing details of the planned homecoming, Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Joe Conway said the achievements of the team deserve to be celebrated.

“The Waterford Senior Camogie players, management and supporters have lifted the spirits of the Déise.  While today’s result didn’t go our way, the teams’ performances throughout the championship were inspiring. The culmination of determination, passion and true grit got Waterford to its first All-Ireland Final in 78 years.”

“They have swept us all along with the excitement and passion for their game, their city and their county. It will be my privilege to welcome the team to a Mayoral reception and homecoming celebration on The Mall in the centre of Waterford at 2pm.”

There will be a DJ set on the Mall from 1.30pm, and WLRfm will be broadcasting live from 1pm.  Master of Ceremonies for the homecoming celebrations is Kieran O’Connor.

Members of the public are encouraged to come along and show their support for manager Séan Power and Waterford’s All-Ireland finalists.

Mayor of Waterford City and County launches the Community Playful Streets Program

Mayor of Waterford City and County Cllr. Joe Conway attended a unique project in Portlaw.

Community Playful Streets are being rolled out through the Waterford City and County Council section under initiatives from the Healthy Ireland strategy.

This was one of Mayor Conway’s first outings since recently being elected and he said  “I was privileged to have been asked to come to the Playful Streets evening in Portlaw.  I met a great bunch of children and their enthusiastic parents, all of whom responded engagingly with Waterford Council’s espousal of the initiative.

The main thrust of “Playful Streets” is to get children to play together safely outdoors – and leaving the couches, TVs, phones and video games to one side.  In doing so, we will build a stronger, more inclusive, child-friendly community.

We hope in the Council to have many more such events in the coming months all over the city and county. Special endorsement for all those parents and helpers who cooked with smashing BBQ food and monitored activities.”

Cllr. Declan Clune was delighted to the response of the community saying, “We are really happy how the event went. We would like this to be a regular event now and give areas a further sense of belonging and knowing your neighbour.”

Resident association member, Leanne Simpson was also delighted with the response. “We didn’t expect such a response, the street came alive with activity and people came from everywhere to lend a hand. I would like to thank Eamon O Leary our estate manager, the mayor, our local councillor  Declan Clune, and most importantly the residents and children who took part. Our chef Philip kept the crowds full and looking for more.”

Eoin Morrissey from Waterford City and County Council Community Section added, “Over 15 events are planned with many completed already this summer. It’s a great way for community to work on a project together which is manageable and shows the benefits of play and social interaction as well as several other tangible benefits.”

Beach Wheelchair Booking system opened by Waterford Sports Partnership

Waterford Sports Partnership (WSP) is pleased to announce an online booking system for Tramore’s Beach Wheelchair is now live.

The beach wheelchair is free to use and is available seven days a week.

Introducing the initiative, Pauline Casey, Sports Inclusion Disability Officer with WSP was delighted with the response to the introduction of the beach wheelchair.  “We have had a fantastic response to the introduction of the beach wheelchair at Tramore.  Users of the beach wheelchair have let us know that its addition has made all the difference to how they can access Tramore’s Blue Flag beach.

“Now the addition of an online booking system will make it easier and more accessible for those with mobility issues to book in advance.

“We have a beautiful beach and prom area, but it’s not always been accessible to everyone. The beach wheelchair gives users and their families and friends the opportunity to enjoy Tramore beach together.”

Cllr. Lola O’Sullivan, Chair of the Waterford branch of Irish Water Safety also welcomed the online booking system.  “The beach wheelchair has been a great success since we introduced it in 2021, however its availability was never a certainty.  Now users will be able to visit the booking portal and book a specific time that suits them.

“I’d encourage any person with a disability or infirmity who up to now hasn’t been able to experience the best of Tramore beach to visit the site and register.  Nobody should be excluded from enjoying all that our coastline has to offer.

“I’d also like to thank the Local Authority and the local businesses for their continued support in bringing this great facility to Tramore, in particular T-Bay Surf Club and Molly’s Café.”

The beach wheelchair is for use within the designated Lifeguard Area on Tramore Beach. between 10am and 5pm and is free of charge.

To book visit https://www.waterfordsportspartnership.ie/beach-wheelchair/ or email pcasey@waterfordsportspartnership.ie

 

Get on your bike for Bike Week

Celebrating the benefits of cycling, Bike Week 2023 kicks off with two full weeks of cycling events and workshops throughout Waterford city and county, from Saturday May 13th to Sunday May 21st.

From dawn cycles and Greenway night cycles, to disability cycle workshops and balance bike schools programme, Bike Week has something for all ages and all abilities.

Launched in 2009, National Bike Week has helped raise the profile of cycling as healthy and fun mode of transport, and it’s also great for the community and the planet. Waterford City and County Council, in association with Waterford Sports Partnership, has compiled a wide range of cycling activities.

If you think you’ve got 30km in the tank, the Passage East 30k spin takes place on May 21st.  This free event includes a 30km cycle from Waterford City to Arthurstown in Co. Wexford, taking in the Passage East Car Ferry, with light lunch provided. All participants must have their own bikes and helmets and be over 16 years of age.

The Waterford Greenway Night Cycle departs SETU Arena Carpark at Carriganore at 9pm on Friday May 19th. Participants over 12 years of age are welcome and must have their own bikes and helmets.

How about a spot of High Tea at Mount Congreve?  This women’s cycle departs Bilberry carpark at 10.30am on Saturday May 13th.  At Mount Congreve you can take a well-earned rest and enjoy a spot of high tea in one of the ‘great gardens of the world.’

Whether you’re in the city or county, enjoy a lunchtime cycle on Wednesday May 17th.  With cycles departing from Walton Park in Dungarvan and the House of Waterford on the Mall in the city, you’ll get to see the very best of your locality on two wheels.  Participants must be over 16 years of age and light lunch is provided.

There are dozens of fun events to choose from.  All events are free, but booking is advised to avoid disappointment.

To find out more about the wide range of events taking place throughout Bike Week in Waterford city and county, or to register for a Bike Week event visit www.bikeweek.ie

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Waterford City Marina : Visitor Berths Closed Until 2025

If you’re a boating enthusiast or a user of Waterford City’s marina, please take note of the latest update regarding the marina.

Construction work on the sustainable transport bridge across the River Suir has commenced. This bridge is a crucial part of the North Quays development, as it will connect the city’s north and south sides, creating new opportunities for businesses, residents, and visitors alike. However, in order to facilitate these works, the visitor berths at Waterford City Marina have closed until 2025.

If you had planned to moor your yacht at the marina during this time, you may be disappointed to hear that it won’t be possible. However, it’s important to note that this closure is necessary to ensure the safety of all involved in the construction of the new bridge. The project is expected to take approximately 2.5 years, at which point the marina will to re-open to visiting yachts.

Waterford City & County Council apologises for this temporary inconvenience, but if you’re looking to explore the beautiful waters of Waterford and experience the city’s rich culture and history, mark your calendar for 2025, and plan your trip accordingly.

In the meantime, if you’re interested in securing a long-term berth at the marina, a waiting list is in place, and the Marina Superintendent can be contacted on 087-2384944.

The marina looks forward to welcoming visitors back in a few years’ time, and in the meantime, there are still plenty of other ways to explore and enjoy the vibrant city of Waterford.

Waterford City and County Council recognised at Chambers Ireland Awards

Waterford City and County Council’s ‘Learn to Cycle Track’ in Dungarvan was announced as winner of the Health and Wellbeing category at the recent Chambers Ireland Excellence in Local Government Awards.

The Health and Wellbeing category recognises best in class efforts by a Local Authority to promote the health and wellbeing of its community, with initiatives such as active transport infrastructure, outdoor recreational areas, or development of facilities that enable and promote physical activities.

Ireland’s first outdoor ‘Learn to Cycle’ track was officially opened in Fairlane earlier in 2022 and the track gives young children the opportunity to learn to cycle on a ‘real life’ road structure with lines, signs, and pedestrian crossing without the traffic.

The track forms part of a burgeoning leisure area that contains a playground, a performance area and skatepark with construction of a BMX pump track due to commence in 2023.

Kieran Kehoe, Director of Services and Dungarvan Town Manager commented, “Waterford City and County Council is delighted to have received this award and to be recognised by Chambers Ireland for its commitment in developing Dungarvan as a ‘Smarter Travel’ town.”

Waterford Council worked in collaboration with Waterford Sports Partnership (WSP) to bring the track to fruition.  WSP delivers Cycling Ireland courses including balance bike training, disability cycling, sprocket rocket and Cycle Right in a completely accessible and traffic free environment.

Peter Jones, Waterford Sports Partnership also commented, “This is a fantastic initiative to be involved with from Day One.  To be recognised nationally for an amenity that ensures children, of all abilities, have a safe and accessible environment to learn to cycle safely, is testament to the vision and dedication of all the stakeholders in bringing the cycle track to Dungarvan.”

Oren Byrne, President of Dungarvan and West Waterford Chamber of Commerce added, “It’s a wonderful addition to the local landscape and judging by the number of children, their parents and schools who use the track, it really is giving our young cyclists the skills to safely cycle on our roads and encourage the use of sustainable transport methods, which will benefit the climate and environment.”

The overall cost of the cycle track was €50,000 with Waterford City and County Council receiving funding from the Local Government Fund and the Capital Grant Scheme for Play and Recreation administered by the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth.

The Excellence in Local Government Awards showcase best practice in local government and recognise the skills, hard work, innovation, and enthusiasm within local government that can often go unrecognised and are held in conjunction with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.

Dungarvan Skate Park : Choose a new Mural : Win a €100 Voucher

Waterford Walls and Dungarvan Skate Park are running a competition to choose the type of mural park users would like to see painted in the park !

Scan the QR code, fill out the form and you could win a €100 Elvery’s Sports voucher in time for Christmas !

The option with the most votes will be chosen and the artist will engage with skateboarders about the design.  Get involved and share with your friends.

Closing date :  18th November 2022

All pumped up for People’s Park new adult fitness park!

A new adult fitness park has recently been installed in Waterford’s People’s Park to encourage people to get out and get active.

With ten new pieces of exercise equipment including a sit-up press, decline bench, pull up station and shoulder press, the equipment is durable and robust enough to withstand the elements.  The exercise equipment allows for a wide range of body weight exercises to be completed across all muscle groups and the set-up of the equipment enables users to experience an outdoor exercise circuit according to ability.

Waterford City and County Council, with support from Waterford Sports Partnership’s Active Cities Waterford project, replaced the old equipment that had been in situ for over 10 years.  Commenting on the new gym equipment, Metro Mayor of Waterford, Cllr. Jason Murphy said that the new addition to the People’s Park is guaranteed to be very popular.

“The gym equipment is of the highest standard and offers a full gym experience, for free and outdoors.  It’s a wonderful addition to the Park, which I’m sure will attract those who are new to exercising in outdoor locations and expand the benefits associated with regular exercise to a greater number of people.”

“Safety has also been taken into consideration, as the bark mulch base is not only more environmentally friendly, with minimal impact on the natural environment, it also doubles as a fall-resistant material.”

Sean Gormley, Executive Engineer, Waterford City and County Council, added that the adult fitness area is an investment not just in the area, but in people’s health.  “The cost of the gym equipment and installation was €46,272, and while it is a long-term investment in key infrastructure, it is also an investment in providing a safe and accessible place to promote health and well-being in Waterford.”

Waterford Sports Partnership was delighted to contribute to the costs of the outdoor gym under the Active Cities Waterford project, which is a Dormant Accounts funded project via Sport Ireland.

Elaine Mullan, Active Cities Officer with Waterford Sports Partnership, said “Having a quality outdoor gym such as this, available free to the public, is an example of how we want to make it easier for people in Waterford to be more active.  Exercising in the outdoors brings with it added benefits and we look forward to seeing this new equipment used by young and old.”

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Ukrainian kids star in children’s football tournament

10 серпня у Дубліні відбулася безпрецедентна подія: перший турнір з дитячого футболу  між командами українських переселенців.  Український дитячий ФК «Дунгарван-Україна», заснований молодим тренером з Києва Дмитром Косіним, зустрівся у дружньому поєдинку зі столичними командами ФК «Динамо-Дублін» під керівництвом тренера Володимира Khrystych.

Дангарван представляли три команди з українських хлопчиків та дівчаток. Вік найменшої учасниці – 5 рочків, найстаршого – 15. І всіх їх поєднує непереможне захоплення футболом.

Загалом у змаганнях взяло участь понад 80 дітей. Це видатна подія не лише для Ірландії, але й для Європи. Юні українці-дунгарванці  показали себе досить пристойно. За результатами турніру маленькі футболісти привезли до Дунгарвану пам’ятні медалі та 4 кубки, які відтепер будуть експонуватися  у Дунгарванському центрі українських переселенців.

Але для організаторів заходу головною нагородою стали щасливі дитячі усмішки – адже завдяки змаганням діти отримали безцінну нагоду поспілкуватися з однолітками, які говорять однією з ними мовою, проявити себе та хоч трохи відволіктися від жахливих подій на батьківщині.

Сподіваємося, що це – лише початок, і юні українці й надалі множитимуть футбольну славу Дунгарвану.

On August 10th, an unprecedented event took place in Dublin: the first children’s football tournament between teams of Ukrainian immigrants. Ukrainian children’s FC “Dungarvan-Ukraine”, founded by a young coach from Kyiv, Dmytro Kosin, played a friendly match with FC “Dynamo-Dublin” under the leadership of coach Volodymyr Khrystych.

Dungarvan was represented by three teams of Ukrainian boys and girls. The youngest participant was a 5 year old girl and the oldest a boy of 15, all of them united by an invincible passion for football.

In total, more than 80 children took part in the competition. This is an outstanding event not only for Ireland but also for Europe. Young Ukrainians from Dungarvan gave a good account of themselves, bringing back to Dungarvan commemorative medals and 4 cups, which are now exhibited in the Dungarvan Rest Centre for Ukrainian refugees.

For the organizers of the event, the main reward was the happy children’s smiles. Thanks to the competition, the children got a priceless opportunity to communicate with their peers, to show their ability and to get away from the terrible events in their homeland for a while.

We hope that this is only the beginning, and the young Ukrainians will continue to increase the football glory of Dungarvan.

Presentation of Certificates for the 2022 Sail Training Ireland Waterford Voyages

On Friday August 5th, Mayor of Waterford City and County Cllr. John O’Leary welcomed some of the participants of Sail Training Ireland’s 2022 Waterford Bursary Scheme to City Hall for a presentation of certificates.

The Waterford Bursary Scheme was established by Sail Training Ireland in 2016 in partnership with Port of Waterford, and Waterford City and County Council. The scheme provides access to the life changing experience of a Sail Training voyage for people aged 14 and above from Waterford and the surrounding regions. One of the ships which was used as a training vessel during the scheme, the Brian Boru, made a welcome return to its former home port on Friday when participants of the training programme docked after their time at sea.

Mayor O’Leary said, “I am pleased to welcome Sail Training Ireland here today to the historic Mayor’s Parlour for the certificate presentation for the 2022 Sail Training Ireland Waterford Bursary Scheme. This experience provides an excellent environment for personal and social development. It is not so much learning to sail as learning from sailing, the vessel, the sea and most importantly from yourself and others. I would like to thank all those involved particularly the sponsors Port of Waterford, and Waterford City & County Council. I also wish Sail Training Ireland and the Waterford Bursary scheme all the very best for the future.”

Daragh Sheridan, CEO of Sail Training Ireland added, “We are delighted to be honouring the achievements of the 22 amazing young people who make up the 2022 Sail Training Ireland Waterford Voyages. This is always a special moment for the trainees, who have returned from a short but intensive experience at sea with a changed view of life, a greater sense of purpose and a new perspective on their own capabilities. This opportunity would not be possible without the fantastic support of Port of Waterford and Waterford City and County Council.”

After the sinking of Asgard II in the Bay of Biscay, off the coast of France, on September 11th 2008, the Coiste an Asgard disbanded but many memories and fond affections remained towards the vessel. And so, it was upon this spirit that Sail Training Ireland was formed in February 2011 as a not-for-profit company by former members of the Coiste an Asgard.

Under the guidance of the professional crew and youth leaders, trainees from different backgrounds and abilities are involved in operating every part of the vessel during voyages that generally last from 5 to 15 days and on vessels that may have from 10 to 50 or more people on board. Trainees take part in sailing voyages at sea on tall ships and large yachts during which they become part of the working crew.

Alongside the Mayor presenting were Daragh Sheridan, CEO of Sail Training Ireland, and Seamus McLoughlin, Chairman and one of the founders of Sail Training Ireland. Also in attendance were Grace O’Sullivan MEP, Cllr. Eddie Mulligan, Lieutenant Commander Jamie Cotter of the Irish Naval Service, and Frank Ronan of the Port of Waterford.

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Dungarvan Skatepark officially opened by Mayor of Waterford City and County

Having been constructed in just under nine weeks Dungarvan Skatepark has been officially opened by Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. John O’Leary.  Located in Fairlane, the skatepark is suited to skateboarders, rollerbladers, BMXers and scooter riders of all ages, skills and styles.

Over the past 15 years many groups and individuals have been calling for the provision of a skatepark in Dungarvan. Building on this work Dungarvan Skatepark c.l.g. was established to bring this wonderful amenity to fruition. The directors of Dungarvan Skatepark c.l.g. are Donal Connolly, Mary Leahy, Cordelia Burke and John Donovan. Mary, Cordelia and John, all officers of Dungarvan No Name Club and previously involved in the building of The Fusion Centre in Dungarvan. Donal brings vast experience from his time as Waterford County Manager and within the Lions Club.

 

The 600m2 facility developed by Dungarvan Skatepark Company is constructed in concrete and combines elements of bowl and street plaza features.  It has been designed with the specific needs of skateboarders in mind with input from Waterford Comhairle na nÓg and local skateboarders.

The input from the skateboarders was very much taken on board and today the skaters can effortlessly complete their ollies, frontside 180s, laser flips and kick flips in the bowl section, while at the street plaza area, skaters and riders can negotiate street obstacles such as stairs, railings and benches.

Speaking at the official opening, Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr John O’Leary said, “I am truly delighted to see so many skateboarders and BMXers availing of the new skatepark. The park has been accessible for a few weeks and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.”

 

“To see crowds of young people, sharing this space, learning new skills or polishing their old skills, encouraging each other and developing new friendships is heartening.”

 

“Now that skateboarding is officially an Olympic Sport, we could be looking at a future gold medallist hailing from Dungarvan or the surrounding areas.  Olympic dreams, like most dreams, start with a spark of encouragement or motivation and I believe this park is where Olympic dreams can become a reality.”

 

Donal Connolly, Dungarvan Skatepark Company said, “The whole premise of the skatepark was to give young people a safe space to skateboard, the opportunity to meet their friends outdoors, have fun and try their hand at skateboarding, regardless of their level of skills.”

 

“It’s evident today that that has been achieved and we’re delighted that skateboaring has become hugely popular with young people who have never tried their hand at it before simply because this facility is outstanding, welcoming and accessible.”

 

Kieran Kehoe, Director of Services with Waterford City and County Council added, “What makes this park particularly special is that it is the opinions, suggestions and advice from those who would use skatepark, have shaped the park.”

 

“Through consultation and engagement with stakeholders Dungarvan Skatepark Company has developed an amenity that has massive appeal to children, their families and young adults and is the envy of many towns and cities.”

 

The project cost almost €200,000 with grant aid of €150,000 from Waterford Leader Partnership, and Dungarvan Lions Club providing €10,000 project funding.  The balance of €40,000 was provided by Waterford City & County Council which also leased the land at Fairlane to the Skatepark Company.  The contractor was Browne Brothers Site Services, in conjunction with Vulcano Skateparks from Spain for the design and construction of the skatepark.