Three more practice lights will be added to Caledonia Park this summer, in time for the VI Raiders' fall practices. (Jordan Davidson/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By Jordan Davidson

light it up

Caledonia Park getting more lights to better secure VI Raiders’ practice area

Jul 25, 2023 | 4:20 PM

NANAIMO — In an effort to make the area more secure following repeated break-ins, the VI Raiders practice area at Caledonia Park is getting an increase to their on-site security.

Nanaimo City Council approved just over $111,000 for practice lights on the east and west sides of the field, as well as security lighting for Caledonia Park during their Monday, July 24 regular council meeting.

Richard Harding, general manager of parks, recreation and culture said they’ll be able to re-use lights from the duel artificial turf fields at Harewood Centennial Park, which are currently under construction.

“We had some lightning equipment, particularly the poles, that were salvageable to utilize in two projects. Six poles were taken down, three were sent to the Stevie Smith Bike Park to light that up…but we also have some other poles that could be used now to light up some natural turf fields.”

Caledonia Park, located at 110 Wall St., hosts a variety of sports as well as serving as the primary practice facility for the VI Raiders who have dealt with numerous break-ins to their facilities over the past few years.

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The latest occurred in June and follows at least two other police incidents, including an almost complete clear-out at their Caledonia Park facility last year, and an early morning fire at the same practice facility last July.

They also had a break-in to a storage container at their former practice facility at Comox Park in 2021.

Security lights will also be installed near the tower and locker room, in addition to the security lights already placed at the concession and washrooms.

Along with the additional field lighting, Harding mentioned they are in talks with the Raiders for additional security measures, including alarms and cameras.

They are planning to have the lights installed by the fall.

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On Twitter: @JordanDHeyNow