TRURO - Ruth Ann Williams made her way towards the gazebo/bandstand with a big smile and the anticipation of having a good time.
Not only was Williams about to the attend the official opening of the new Riverfront Park, on the Truro side of the Salmon River bridge, but she was also about to hear her granddaugher, Sabrina Williams, perform as a member of the Truro Concert Band.
"I think it's very much needed because there is only the one park (Victoria) we have," she said, as people began to gather under the blazing sun of a hot summer's day.
"But this one is closer to Bible Hill and it's utilizing this area much better than it was before," she said.
Marg Jackson of Truro agreed.
"I think it's wonderful because it's a place that people can come now and just relax and it's a very nice place, now that the old sheds are gone from the town," she said. "It made a beautiful spot for visitors and everybody else. I think it's one thing that Truro's really done us proud."
With a light breeze teasing through the heat and blue skies reigning supreme, about 100 people turned out for the official opening, prior to the start of the evening of musical entertainment by a number of local groups.
The event also served as the official kickoff of a summer concert series, which will be held on Friday nights at 7 p.m.
"It's a great day to introduce our new Riverfront Park," said Brent MacDonald, president of the Downtown Truro Partnership, the driving force behind the site's development.
"The partnership has long recognized that the rejuvenation of our urban regional core is one of our most important economic tools. We know that the green and open spaces in our downtown are incredible assets to the whole of our community. They are instrumental in both the resident and visitor experience, they add to the aura, ambience and leave a lasting impression," he said
The $400,000 park, which is intended to serve as the venue for "many levels of social action," cultural events and activities, was funded through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, the province of Nova Scotia and the Town of Truro, which contributed $50,000.
"Thank you for sharing our vision," MacDonald said, prior to participating in the official ribbon cutting with Truro/Bible Hill MLA Lenore Zann and Truro Mayor Bill Mills.
Flogger... this money came from the Feds... it's the town that is responsible for the streets and our town has almost no money which is why the streets are in horrible condition. That being said any improvement like this is good for the Town.