Nov 02, 2009 - 04:30 AM

By Jeff Hayward

UXBRIDGE -- An Uxbridge charitable group is hoping to make a splash with a new community play park in the heart of town.

The Uxbridge Bonner Boys has a plan to construct a splash pad, playground, gazebo and hill slides, at an estimated $400,000, next to the arena on Brock Street West for public use.

Bret Meyers, a member of the Bonner Boys, said the need for a splash pad here is evident.

"Every time we went to a neighbouring town, we saw Uxbridge residents using their splash pad," he told councillors, who applauded the idea.

The group said there is ample space at the site even if a planned fire hall is built next to the arena. The group favours the location for parking and visibility.

The Bonner Boys committed $100,000 toward the project, while asking the Township to donate land, match or exceed the group's contribution and "bridge finance" the group until it can repay the cash. The organization is confident the community will step up with donations, noting the initiative "will bring out the best in our tremendous residents and we know that the remaining $50,000 will be given in-kind."

Meanwhile, Mr. Meyers said his team is hoping to secure an Ontario Trillium Foundation grant for $150,000, with a fast-approaching application deadline of Nov. 1. Some councillors were hesitant to commit Township cash on the spot.

"I would really prefer to put this over to March," said Regional Councillor Howie Herrema. "(But) I don't think anyone here doesn't see the positives (of this project)."

Mr. Meyers said if the project has to be phased in, the group would focus on installing the splash pad first.

Councillors voted to refer the request to the 2010 budget, while asking staff to investigate land use compatibility.