I would like to say how proud I am to have been on the Ramp Park Committee and to thank the other committee members involved with the project who have been working on this for about 1 A?1?2 years.
When I walked out of White Brothers office after meeting with Mike White, I knew that after 10-15 years of talking this was going to be a reality and with the committee that we had, that this would become possible.
Thanks to Mayor Bruce Chuluda, who had promoted and supported this for years and believed in it, presented it to the City Council. Jerre Bryant, who could advise us in the steps we had to take legally and otherwise, he also communicated with Hannaford Brothers for us. Chief McCarthy advised us on police matters and the gate for the rescue, if needed. Thanks also to Randy Peters and Bruce Dyer, who had contact with the young people, and received their views on the components and design for the ramp park. Randy also received the bids on the project and presented them to the City Council. He also ordered the components for the ramp park. Randy and Bruce have also talked to the young people about rules and taking care of the ramp park for future youths to enjoy. Eric Dudley with advice on the land drainage and any other questions pertaining to the project.
Pike Industries for the paving of the ramp park, (and also welcome Pike Industries to our city). Burns Fencing Company for removing and replacing the fence after work is completed. A special thank you to Hannaford Brothers for their cooperation. Michelle at City Hall for all her help and the great job for scheduling all of our meetings. I must remember Councilor John O’Hara who has wanted this park for years, and all the other City Council members that helped this become a reality. My responsibilities were to making sure that meetings were scheduled, updating on where everyone was on their responsibilities time wise and promoting the park and talking to the young people. Being aggressive at times to not lose sight of our goal and determined that this was the year it was going to happen.
This park will not cost the people of Westbrook any tax dollars.
So if you are ever bored, depressed or just want something to make you feel young again, take a cup of coffee, sit, watch, enjoy, and wish you were a kid again and do what they can do.
My thanks to all as this was a true community project and one that I am proud to have been part of.
Kathy Poirier
Westbrook
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