Mesabi Metallics donated $20,000 for the project, which includes new playground equipment, a new kids hockey rink, replaced lighting structures, new fencing and more
Last week, multiple organizations and many people celebrated the groundbreaking of a new recreation complex at the heart of the Wabana Township. Mesabi, an advanced-construction stage taconite mine and pellet plant in Nashwauk, donated $20,000 for the completion of the project, which includes sorely needed repairs across the complex, including new playground equipment, a new kids hockey rink, replaced lighting structures, new fencing, freshly planted trees and more.
In 2017, a community group formed to raise money to upgrade many items at the recreation area such as the hockey rink, playground areas, and tennis court, as well as relocating the basketball hoops, adding two pickleball courts, a kiddy ice rink, and an ADA-compliant paved walkway to the pavilion. The cost of the project was approximately $480,000 and was primarily funded through private donations and grants and the group started fundraising in late 2022.
The funds for the project were held at the Grand Rapids Area Community Foundation to accept contributions during the duration of the project.
A month after the announcement in 2022 of the work to start fundraising for the upgrade the heart of Wabana, the growth thermometer showed that the committee had raised over $142,000.
Mesabi Metallics was excited to be included in the project that will bring people back to a community base where many different activities and games can be played.
“Mesabi Metallics’ investment in the Iron Range extends beyond our commitment to mining, local jobs and the economy—we are also deeply invested in the culture, health and well-being of the communities where we live, work and play,” said Joe Broking, President & CEO of Mesabi Metallics.
“The Wabana recreation complex is an exciting project that will bring people together, promote health and fitness, and foster a sense of belonging. Mesabi is proud to support this project.”
“Mesabi employees live in towns throughout the Iron Range, and we believe that projects like Wabana’s recreation complex lead to strong, healthy and happy communities, not just for our employees and their families, but for the entire area,” said Larry Sutherland, President & COO of Mesabi Metallics. “Our hope is that, as our company continues to expand, Iron Rangers for generations to come can take advantage of these new facilities.”
Representative Spencer Igo of Wabana was present at the groundbreaking, as were several other businesses and groups that supported the project.
“This is a historic day for Wabana and for my family,” said Kim Oja, a Wabana resident and member of the committee spearheading the renovation project. “As we break ground today, I’m remembering my late husband, Gary Oja, who was intricately involved with this project for years because he knew how important it was to our community. I’m overwhelmed with gratitude for all our donors and sponsors, particularly for the significant gift from Mesabi Metallics.” Gary Oja passed away in January of this year and was a great community leader and lead this project with passion. Mindy Nuhring from Grand Rapids Area Community Foundation said that everyone really came together at the end of this project to make sure that it happened.
Following a break for the winter season, construction on the recreation complex is expected to resume in the spring of 2025 to finish construction of the tennis court, two pickleball courts and a walking trail. The new recreation complex is slated to open in mid-late summer, 2025.
Local News
Comments / 0