With a new name comes new funding for a City project.

The City of Swift Current announced during last night's city council meeting that they had entered into an agreement with Plewis Automotive Group regarding the naming rights to the new Inclusive Park being built.

This agreement see's the park, located at Central Avenue South and Gladstone Street, rebranded as the Plewis Automotive Group Inclusive Park (PAGIP). In exchange for having its name on the park, the Group has paid the City $100,000.

This one-time payment secures the naming rights for the next 15 years. Officially beginning June 1, 2023, the agreement will expire on May 31, 2038. 

Ryan Plewis, a partner in Plewis Automotive Group, has been championing the effort to build the park as a member of Swift Current city council and was happy to continue the effort via this partnership. 

"At Plewis Automotive Group, we believe our community is 'Better Together'," said Plewis in an official release.

"That belief drives our passion to give back and provide sponsorship funding towards projects that align with our values and benefit the entire community. Knowing this park will allow all children to play is a great feeling and something we are honoured to help make a reality. We are thrilled to support this important project and the idea that play is for everyone."

The money garnered in this new deal will allow the City to pay for adjustments and additions being made to the park. These adjustments are outside the original budget for the park, as they were made after a community consultation.

During the consultation, Swift Current residents were able to voice their concerns and what they thought the park would additionally require to meet their needs.

Presenting the matter of the naming rights to Swift Current city council was Nicole Spenst, the events and program manager for the City of Swift Current. 

"Plewis Automotive Group will have the option to renew the term for an additional five to ten years, at a price to be negotiated between the parties," said Spenst. "Provided that written notice is delivered to the City on or before July 1, 2037."

Some of the features of the PAGIP include a We-Go-Swing and a Sway Fun Wheelchair glider. The City will also be installing an accessible washroom, featuring an adult-size change table. These will all be built in phase one of the project, which is expected to be completed by the end of June 2023. 

Phase two of the project will include sheltered and shaded areas, space for family gatherings such as picnics, an accessible set of pathways and a parking lot.