news-record.com

HICKORY (MCT) — It's been one year since the disappearance and murder of Zahra Baker, and those in Hickory and beyond still mourn her death.

The community's compassion for Zahra is reflected in the generosity of people, businesses and other organizations who have dedicated funds to the Zahra Baker All Children's Playground that will be built at Kiwanis Park in Hickory. The playground will be accessible to children of all abilities.

The City of Hickory is planning to hold a ground-breaking ceremony on Nov. 16, which would have been Zahra's 12th birthday, to unveil the playground. The plans call for completion of the park by early spring.

Steve Aaron, President of the Western Catawba County Kiwanis Club, said the official fund-raising deadline for the Kiwanis Playground Fund for Zahra was Sept. 20, but more donations are expected.

"We're about $170,000. We still have promises and a few businesses who are still going to contribute," said Aaron. "When we're done, we'll be closer to $200,000 number to start building the playground."

Aaron said the city sent out bid specifications for the park about 10 days ago. Because it is a city-sanctioned project, there were certain requirements. He said they expect to have bids back by Oct. 24. They will make a decision on the contractors that week, and place an order shortly thereafter.

Though the ground-breaking is next month, the playground will likely be finished next spring. Part of the construction process will include help from local community groups, as is required as part of a KaBOOM playground grant. That will save on labor costs, said Aaron.

"It's kind of taken on a life of its own, said Aaron. "It'll be a destination facility, unlike anything else in the Unifour area."

The playground will be at 805 6th St., SE.