Dear Editor,
I am writing to highlight an important need in our community: the establishment of a playground in Tlell | Tll.aal. As the only place on Haida Gwaii without a dedicated playground, our hamlet is missing a valuable resource that could significantly enhance the well-being of our children and families.
With a growing population of children in Tlell | Tll.aal, the absence of a safe and engaging play area is increasingly felt. Currently, we are the only community on the island without a dedicated playground, which places our children at a disadvantage compared to neighbouring communities. Port Clements is building a new playground at the elementary school, and Skidegate recently opened a new playground along Front Street. Both are newly designed, with long-lasting equipment and various features for different ages, and are located near areas with high community use.
Residents have discussed the location of a playground in the past. The ideal location would be near the soccer fields or within the provincial park. Misty Meadows Campground is one of the few BC Parks without a playground compared to others on the mainland. The soccer fields behind the Fire Hall are designated as the “Community Core” on the North Coast Regional District map of Tlell | Tll.aal. A playground in either area would provide our children with a space for physical activity and serve as a gathering place for families. Could you imagine Soccer Saturdays with a proper playground to release your children upon? Sounds wonderful, if you ask me. Maybe we could also add new public washrooms and a food stand while we’re at it. This addition to our hamlet would contribute to the overall health, happiness, and reduce fuel costs for residents—no need to drive a half hour for a play date.
What about those hordes of tourists in the summer? A playground would make Tlell | Tll.aal an even more attractive stop for them. As tourism continues to grow year-round on Haida Gwaii, our mid-island location makes it an ideal stop for families travelling with children. A playground would not only attract visitors but also enrich their experience, providing a space for them to relax while their children play (especially when they don’t want to be on the beach during southeast winds). This could lead to longer stays and increased spending in local businesses.
In summary, the establishment of a playground is a crucial investment in our children’s well-being, our community’s cohesion, and the economic vitality of our small but mighty hamlet. I hope this letter sparks discussions between the Tlell Community Association and other island partners to see this project succeed. Let us work together to create a safe and joyful space for our children to thrive while also welcoming visitors to experience the warmth and charm of Tlell | Tll.aal.
Sincerely,
Heidi Richardson
Full-time mom / Part-time Tlellian