The family and friends of an 8-year-old boy killed in Fredericton last year gathered Monday for the official opening of a playground revamped in his memory.
“It’s not a sad day. It’s actually a break from the sadness and an opportunity for us to celebrate the accomplishments of our community and our little boy,” said the boy’s father, Jeff Wright.
Jackson Wright was struck and killed by an out-of-control vehicle while playing on his front lawn on June 14, 2015.
After his tragic death, the community came together and decided to improve the playground at Connaught Street School - where Jackson was a student and spent much of his time playing – in his memory.
“We received over $160,000 in charitable support for the playground in support of Jackson,” said Wright.
“Now we see here on the playground a new addition and one that I think will bring a lot of joy to kids,” said David McTimoney, superintendent of the Anglophone West School District.
Several improvements have been made to the playground, including resurfacing the asphalt, a new rubberized surface and play structure, and new paint for basketball, four square and hopscotch.
Jackson’s sister Abby and friend Benjamin Kennedy say they already have a new favourite place to hang out.
“The play structure … because I like climbing,” said Abby.
“I really like climbing and trees and stuff like that,” said Benjamin. “It’s going to be really fun.”
A new sheltered space called Jackson Square is central to the playground.
“The school intends to use it as an outdoor learning space, certainly, but also a hub of the playground that we hope teachers and students will enjoy,” said Wright.
Wright and those involved in the playground project say it will ensure that Jackson’s legacy lives on in the community.
With files from CTV Atlantic's Nick Moore
