STOUGHTON - The Town of Stoughton received two government grants to build a new green space in town.
Shirley Coderre, a long-time resident of Stoughton and a town council member, brought the idea of a green space to a council meeting. Upon approval from council, Coderre moved forward with her plans.
The two lots that once housed the old credit union and museum had already been demolished, and since the lots were owned by the town, it was the perfect location.
Coderre began drawing the plans for the green space and calculating the cost to do the build. Proof was also needed to make sure the town met the criteria. Coderre also received letters of support which were written by a few locals.
Jade Larose from the Stoughton Town Office helped with the paperwork and submitted all required material for the grants.
The first grant of $35,000 came from the Canadian Healthy Communities Initiative. This program had an overwhelming response and many local communities applied.
The second grant came from the Canada Community Revitalization fund. Stoughton was granted $53,860.
This government program will run for two years and offers $500 million in national infrastructure support for non-profit organizations.
These grants were put in place to build places for people to gather outdoors, to help create jobs and stimulate the economy.
Coderre’s green space plans would be budgeted to only use grant money.
Stoughton’s green space is located on Main Street, beside the Crossroads Inn, across the street from the Stoughton Meat Market.
Coderre feels it is the perfect place for people to sit and have lunch, as there are eateries close by.
Chamney Construction from Estevan was awarded the general contract, with some aspects being contracted out, such as the electrical to All Tech Electric from Weyburn.
With the three gazebos built, a bright red privacy fence and the gravel pathways in place, there is little left to do.
The picnic tables should arrive in a week and then the sod can be laid. Shrubs have been planted around the perimeter as well.
It is hoped the project will be completed in mid-August for all to enjoy.
