Local skateboarders can now enjoy a better and longer skating day thanks to a collaborative effort that has brought new lights to The Rapids Skate Park in downtown Pembroke.
Spearheaded by Colony Skate Shop’s Tanner Hogan and Deputy Mayor Brian Abdallah, the project brought together partners in the City of Pembroke Parks and Recreation Department, Ottawa River Power Corporation (ORPC), and an anonymous donor to bring it accomplish it.
Four new solar-powered lights, paid for by the Parks and Recreation Department, now illuminate the park. The lights’ poles were paid for by the anonymous donor, and Ottawa River Power donated the time and labour to install the poles and mount the lights.
“Ottawa River Power is happy to help the City of Pembroke install solar lights at The Rapids Skate Park,” says ORPC President and CEO Justin Allen. “These lights make the park safer and let families and kids use it longer each day. This project shows our commitment to safety, innovation, and being a good neighbor. We are proud to be able to support a project that will bring joy and value to our community.”
These new lights enhance the park by extending the hours skateboarders can enjoy the park and decreasing hazardous shadows in the evening caused by ramps, rails, and obstacles.
“The skate park becomes a hub of activity even after dark,” says Deputy Mayor Abdallah. “Families, friends, and spectators gather to watch the impressive moves and share the excitement. It's a true testament to the sense of community fostered by this project.”
The Rapids Skate Park is located at 22 Lake Street, at the corner of Lake and Albert streets.