The construction community is being asked to get onboard with an effort to help the Shuswap Agricultural Association complete repairs needed on the fairgrounds to host the upcoming demolition derby.
Salmon Arm Demo Derby and Swap Meet organizer Dave Schwandt has been posting to different groups on social media, asking for help with "critical work" on the grandstand on the south fairgrounds. He said the June 14 and 15 derby "will not proceed if this doesn't happen."
On behalf of the derby and the Shuswap Agricultural Association (SAA), Schwandt's post includes a list of needs: 5/8 plywood, 2x8s, 2x6s and 2x4s.
"We need to build some serious restructuring on the end caps and new hand railings," said Schwandt, who is aiming for a three-day construction blitz May 2-4.
"This is very doable with the community spirit I know we have."
Newly appointed SAA board member Scott Syme of Syme Structural Engineering Ltd. has been working on an assessment of the grandstand. He noted the building is around 38 years old, it's exposed to the elements and, as a result, has some wood rot and deterioration that needs to be addressed.
"The derby won鈥檛 be the same without it, and that鈥檚 the push, to make sure the derby can be successful鈥�," said Syme. "It needs to get done to ensure public safety and I think the recommendations we鈥檙e going to make for repairs are within the realm of what's possible."
Board president Tom Gizsas was impressed by the "awesome response" received so far, noting some funding has already been donated for the repair work which, ideally, can be completed by volunteer contractors and labour. The process is underway to acquire a city permit for the work.
"It's going to be done professionally, done right and hopefully be there for our children and grandchildren," said Gizsas.
Schwandt noted tax receipts will be issued for donations supporting the project.
Anyone who can help is asked to contact Schwandt at 250-803-1439, or by email at daveschwandt014@gmail.com, or Syme at 250-803 8459.
During the May work blitz, Gizsas is also looking for volunteers who can assist with a general cleanup of the fairgrounds.
"We would love, at that time, to take advantage of any volunteer help and continue with cleaning the grounds," said Giszas. "Bring a rake and come and help so we can rake up the leaves on the north and south grounds."
