Wonderful Project Sure To Win Support

Tue., April 18, 2000

By Ken Sands kens@spokesman.com

An impressive new YMCA facility is about to open at Mirabeau Point, just west of the Spokane Valley Mall. The Valley is so starved for recreational opportunities that YMCA membership is expected to reach 9,000 in the first three years of operation.

The YMCA facility is the first building to be finished at Mirabeau Point, a community complex at the former Walk in the Wild Zoo site. The other major structure planned at Mirabeau is a senior citizens center, education center and civic center combined into a three-wing building.

Mirabeau leaders are seeking $3.5 million to $7 million in state funding, and a private campaign to raise $2 million more kicks off in May.

Mirabeau Point is a wonderful project and it deserves community support. This initial success can be attributed in part to the visionary thinking of the late Denny Ashlock, who first dreamed of a cultural and civic center in the Valley. His vision is being carried forward by a dedicated group of volunteers, including Mirabeau board president Greg Bever.

Next up for construction is Mirabeau Springs, a children’s fishing pond, with swinging bridge and waterfalls.

The unfolding attractions at Mirabeau Point promise to make the Valley a more complete community - a prospect residents surely will applaud.

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