Quite literally decades in the making, it comes as no surprise that the new Crofton skate park has been named after somebody who was there every step of the way.
Henceforth, the 5,500-square-foot facility on Chaplin Street will be known as Gerry Hurst Skate Park.
“We are very pleased that we can recognize Gerry in this way,” said North Cowichan Mayor Jon Lefebure.
“Gerry was a tremendous advocate for youth and never wavered from his vision of securing a skate park for Crofton.”
Often dubbed “the unofficial Mayor of Crofton”, it was roughly 20 years ago that Hurst saw a need, struck up a youth committee, and began fundraising for a new skateboard facility.
Through his leadership and guidance, and with many young helpers along the way, he was able to raise more than $13,000 for the future park.
“Gerry was the quintessential believer that recreation opportunities for youth were essential for a healthy community,” said a news release.
Not only was he able to connect with the village’s youth, he was successful in getting grown-up groups on board as well, like the Crofton Community Centre Society and the Crofton Seniors.
The $183,500-park opened in January on 1.2 acres along Chaplin Street just up the hill from the Vesuvius-bound ferry terminal.
Hurst died on April 12.