City taking notice of climbing’s popularity

[squamish climber]

What’s up with Squamish? The town seems to have awakened to the fact that a lot of people climb and a lot more from all over come here to do the same. That’s not to underplay the city’s support in making Smoke Bluffs an incredible urban climbing park but so far this year there’s been a lot of talk about catering to climbers and putting in climbing features.

There is the example of Solterra’sproposal to build an 8,000 square foot climbing gym at its business park site at Commercial and Queens Way. And in April the city put out a request for corporate sponsors and naming rights for an outdoor climbing boulder in Junction Park.

“The District of Squamish is seeking sponsorship for a new climbing boulder that is
intended to help bring the climbing experience to anyone who visits Downtown.
The proposed location of the boulder is in Junction Park, located near the heart of
Downtown Squamish. Junction Park features the O’Syiam Pavilion, washrooms, art in
the park and hosts many community events including the Squamish Mountain Festival.
The location provides breathtaking views of the Stawamus Chief that will inspire the
most seasoned climbers, visitors who have never climbed and even kids who want to
give climbing a try”

One explanation for all this attention may be 2014 is the city’s centennial. Let’s hope Squamish climbing continues to benefit.

What do people think of this outdoor climbing boulder?
Is there a sponsor out there who would step up?