Naval Avenue Elementary gets new track.

Almost 30 years after the Bremerton Central Lions Club constructed the first track around Naval Avenue Elementary School, the Lions delivered again with a $15,000 donation to enhance the school’s recreational amenities.

Naval Avenue principal John Welsh said the project is part of the overall vision for the school as it focuses on becoming an exemplary preschool through third grade learning center.

“We reopened Naval Ave(nue) Elementary with the vision to do what ever it takes to support our families and students in our community,” Welsh said. “The vision of Naval Avenue is to be a family friendly and community friendly school.”

The new track is one of several community projects that will benefit both the students and their families, he said.

The new amenity falls in line with the work of the Boys and Girls Club reaching students in first through eighth grades, he said.

“The Boys and Girls Club operates at Naval yearround and they also will benefit from having the track and outdoor fitness center established at Naval,” he said.

In the near future, several fitness stations will be set up around the track, he said.

“Students and families will have access to this at all times,” he said. “We are hoping to create a space where kids and families can have a safe, family friendly spot here in our neighborhood to participate in fitness activities.”

In addition to the financial advantage of community groups offering additional resources that benefit the school’s students and families, there is

the benefit of students and families in the Naval (Ave.) community witnessing the visible support and encouragement that a community organization brings when they take on a project of this magnitude, he said.

“We want every child at Naval to know that there are adults that care about them and are interested in their future,” Welsh said. “We are so grateful to the Lions Club for demonstrating their interest and support to our children and families.”