The town waited for years to replace the highly popular Big Green Slide at Botelle Elementary School after it was vandalized and there was considerable rejoicing last August when a new, slightly shorter slide was finally erected in its place.
But now the new slide is broken and off-limits to the children who enjoyed zipping down its 60-foot length.
First Selectman Matt Riiska reported to the Board of Finance this week that Creative Recreation of West Hartford, which installed it, did not put footings below the supports. The slide has shifted and several flanges are cracked. He is in contact with the company and predicted that its repair will not cost the town anything.The new slide cost $80,000. Replacement became an issue in town, and it was not until ARPA funds and private donations were dedicated to the purchase price that it was restored to its pride of place above the school’s playing fields