BRIDGEWATER - Bridgewater High School hopes an upcoming fundraiser will be the springboard it needs to jump headfirst into the next stage of its backyard project.

 "Phase 1, which is the front, is now pretty much done," said options and opportunities teacher Jeff Rhodenizer about the landscaping and other work done on the York Street side of the school.

 "Now we're moving on the second part, which is the actual backyard. That's the largest undertaking, both from a financial standpoint and from a spectrum of what we want to do."

 Previously announced long-term plans for the Queen and Dominion Street sides include replacing the asphalt with outdoor classroom space, new benches and seating areas, brick paths, gardens and the big-ticket item - an eco-gym sports court made of synthetic material.

 "The goal of the backyard project is to create a green space and an outdoor educational space that will support the well-being of students of Bridgewater Junior-Senior High School and the community as well," said Mr. Rhodenizer, adding it comes with a price tag of about $340,000.

 "That's our goal, it's just a matter of getting there financially."

 Therefore, a committee of staff and parents overseeing the project is breaking it down into more manageable components.

 "What we hope to achieve this year through the fundraising of this run and potentially some other grants is to build a gazebo and create some green space."

 He said $2,000 would cover the costs for that part of the project, which is being planned for the horseshoe-shaped area surrounded by the school on three sides.

 "It'll be an outdoor eating and leisure spot for students."

 Options and opportunities students are expected to build Adirondack chairs and planter boxes for the area as well.

 "We'll try to get some grass and dirt in there too, as opposed to it just being all asphalt. ... Right now it's a wasted space where students could gather, and community members as well."

 This year's major fundraiser is the Run for Green on November 27.

 "The event is a five-kilometre run that goes through the Town of Bridgewater. It's for all ages and all levels of runners and walkers."

 For more information, contact the school.

posted on 11/23/11