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Play Spaces

Play Spaces Committee Updates

 

Summary of KELSET Naturescape Play Space Enhancement Project

 

The KELSET Elementary Play Spaces Committee is working on a project to revitalize the school’s outdoor area into a dynamic, nature-inspired play and learning space. The goal is to combine natural elements with engaging structures to promote physical activity, education, and community use.

 

Here's a breakdown of the key aspects:

Key Features

  • Play structures: Large climbing elements, spinners, a sandpit, and boulders integrated into the natural landscape.

  • Educational additions: Native and medicinal plants, chosen in collaboration with the WSÁNEĆ community, with interpretive signage to teach about Indigenous heritage and practices.

  • Accessibility improvements: Addressing drainage issues and adding accessible pathways to ensure inclusivity.

Expected Outcomes

  • Enhanced outdoor educational opportunities for 350+ students, including lessons in environmental science and Indigenous culture.

  • A safer, inclusive space for physical activity and social interaction, benefiting students and the broader North Saanich community.

  • Environmental benefits such as improved stormwater management, biodiversity, and wildlife habitat.

Costs

  • The project is estimated to cost $180,000 in total.

  • The KELSET Parent Advisory Council (PAC) has committed $20,000 toward the project.

  • Additional funding will be raised through donations and community support.

Timeline

  • Fundraising will continue through spring 2025.

  • Construction and landscaping are planned for completion by fall 2025.

Here is the updated cost breakdown for the KELSET Nature-Scape

 

Playground project, including who is responsible for each component:

  • Landscape Works: $47,711

    • Budgeted by D Byrne Construction & Excavating Ltd.

    • Covers the supply and installation of lawn, soil, play boulders, irrigation, grading of planting beds, play surfaces, and the vegetated bio-swale.

  • Play Structures + Engineered Wood Fiber: $91,187.25

    • Budgeted by Habitat Systems

    • Includes two spinners, a Habitat Natural Play climbing structure (Yellow Cedar Klondike and Hornby Climbers), engineered wood fiber, supply, installation, freight, and delivery.

  • Planting (Trees, Shrubs, Perennials, Grasses, and Groundcovers): $9,424.14

    • Budgeted by Novus

    • Covers 18 trees and 399 shrubs, grasses, and groundcovers.

  • Concept, Detailed Design, and Construction Services: $5,000

    • Budgeted by Biophilia Collective

    • Covers design and construction planning services.

  • Interpretative Signage + Co-op Recognition Plaque: $21,850

    • Budgeted by Garside Signs & Displays

    • Includes educational signage and recognition plaques.

Total Cost: $175,172.39

 

This initiative aims to provide a safe, engaging, and educational outdoor environment for both KELSET students and the surrounding community.

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