Manchester Life 2024 | Page 37

painted outline of the Battenkill River and two conical peak obstacles that mirror the nearby mountains .
Phase 1 and 1.5 were completed before the park ’ s grand opening in August 2019 . The park was greeted with incredible support from the local community . When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020 , the Manchester Skatepark Committee remained undeterred in their fundraising efforts for the two final phases . Over the course of the following several years , Bill Strecker and several other committee members attended additional town meetings . They seized the opportunity to advocate for funding the park ’ s completion . Strecker elaborates : “ When they heard about the skateboarding clinic programs that were going on , the popular use of the park , and what was planned for its future , they vocalized their support and let us know that they were on board .” In the months following the town meetings , officials and residents started to rally behind the completion of the project . “ Our involvement as a committee was persistent – we went the duration ,” says Strecker . “ It wasn ’ t a sprint ; it was a marathon .” The tenacity of the committee resonated deeply with town officials and residents , leading to a groundswell of financial backing .
Scott Murphy , Manchester ’ s current Town Manager , shares that when the contract was signed for the construction of Phases 2 and 3 in 2022 , Manchester allocated $ 75,000 of ARPA funds , with significant additional funding sourced from anonymous donors . “ People in our community have been incredibly supportive ,” says Murphy . “ They understand that the park is a draw for both residents and visitors , and it provides a place where our younger community members can enjoy themselves in a positive way . It

get out there

No matter your age or ability , our summer activities will take you to new heights — from our triple-track Alpine Slide to the Giant Swing to our Big Splash Waterslide , customize your mountain playground experience at Bromley .
3984 Vermont Route 11 , Peru , VT 802-824-5522
Just six miles from Manchester . Open May through October .
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