Italian Village Park Committee:

October 9, 2007 Update

Steve Hurtt noted that no park construction occurred in the last month.  Last month, the Italian Village Society discussed some concerns with the installation of the sidewalk by the City, as grading was an issue.  The Park Committee met with the designers of the park to discuss some errors in elevation.  Some of the sidewalks will be removed, the park will be graded properly and the sidewalk will be re-installed once the grading issue has been resolved.  A member present asked, “Do we have to pay for this change?” Steve noted that since the installation was incorrect, the City is going to be covering this cost. 

During this phase of construction, Steve noted that we wanted to have irrigation installed.  The irrigation system may still occur, but we need to start planning in case the funding is not available by the City.  We will need to do some fundraising to be able to cover the costs of the irrigation.  The cost estimate of an irrigation system is $14,000.  We will keep working on the issue.  If you have any thoughts or suggestions, please contact Steve Hurtt.

With assistance from MSI Design, the Italian Village Society Park Committee is working to move the new design for the park located at Kerr and Hubbard Streets into reality.  With the plans in place, the committee is now pursuing a funding plan for the project. 

Due to the scope of the park redevelopment project, the funding plan will be separated into two phases.  Phase I will include the basic improvements that are necessary to begin the project such as demolition of the current pavilion structure, grading of moving of soil, installation of irrigation systems and lighting, and other general site improvements.  Phase II includes features such as a new pavilion with access for disabled persons, garden walls and ornamental fencing. 

Detailed perspective drawings, photographs and budget estimates were presented to attendees at the Italian Village Society Holiday Potluck on December 13, 2005.  The plans were well received and many ideas for possible funding sources were shared.  The Park committee will pursue funding in the form of grants from foundations, non-profit organizations, and state, city and federal agencies.  Donations from private individuals and businesses will also be accepted. 

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