Red Deer recreation amenities receive personal financial contribution

“Over the years, Woody has supported many community initiatives that have resulted in an improved quality of life for Red Deerians. He is passionate about initiatives that enable people of all ages and abilities to get out into nature, be active and build a community in a city they call home,” said Mayor Ken Johnston. “His financial contribution to the three facilities speaks for itself and will leave a lasting legacy of our beloved recreational facilities for generations to come.”

Officials note that each of the three amenities that will benefit from his generosity has a personal connection to him and his family. The track is said to have been where he and his family spent numerous hours training and supporting annual community events. Bower-Kin Park has provided hours of entertainment for the youngsters who are connected to his family and the surrounding neighborhood.

In the meantime, as one of the many improvements taking place at the GH Dawe Community Center, the Spray Park is expected to bring joy to generations for many years to come.

“Red Deer and Central Alberta have been very kind to my family and have supported our business in a tremendous way. I feel privileged to give back to a community we care about. Outdoor trails and parks are the jewel of our city and my family wants that to continue,” said Woody Paylor. “My wife Val and I have spent many hours at community playgrounds and we are excited to be building one with the Bower Community Association. Our entire family has enjoyed the events along the route and we are thrilled to see that this convenience continues to provide a similar experience to others in the community.”

The city wants to coordinate the playground change. As part of the design process, it is expected that the neighborhood will be involved in designing the playground through collaboration with the Bower-Kin Community Association, who will help bring the vision to life. According to official information, planning should begin during the winter, and construction should take place in spring and summer 2023.

Woody’s Athletic Park has planned construction to begin in summer 2023 with expected completion by fall 2023. Woody’s Spray Park is expected to open in early summer 2023.

The city says that once complete, it will host community events for each of these facilities where residents can celebrate Woody’s legacy in the community.

Woody’s commitment to community spirit, togetherness and active living is exemplified by this generous contribution. However, the contribution amount and the terms of the agreement will not be publicly disclosed. Although Woody wishes these terms to remain confidential, city officials can report that this is one of the greatest personal contributions to the city’s recreational spaces.

The GH Dawe Community Center expansion project is expected to open in late February 2023, with Woody’s Spray Park opening in Summer 2023.

For more information on the project, visit www.reddeer.ca/daweexpansion.