Once the fountains were turned off in October, the Friends of the Park Avenue Medians (FOPAM) missed the lights and the community First Friday gathering that has become a popular neighborhood-wide monthly event. So, this December neighbors installed a lit “tree” in each of the two median fountains and hosted the first holiday tree lighting – with hot drinks for all.
Dozens of neighbors bundled up and counted down to the lighting of the trees. There is lots of enthusiasm for making this an annual tradition!
But as lovely as our fountains are, they are in need of repair. Even more critical are the eight historic urns. FOPAM is seeking to raise $200,000 for capital improvements to the Park, and to refurbish and make critical safety repairs to our historic urns and fountains. Yes, that’s a lot of money!! But, just repairing and refurbishing the three urns in the worst condition will require $30,000, and repairing and modernizing the fountain electrical systems may require $10,000.
Volunteers led by Gary and Bobbi Schilling keep the park planted and spiffy. The city Department of Recreation and Parks keep it mowed and turn the fountain on and off seasonally. Anything else is up to the neighborhood.
Through the Bolton Hill Community Association (BHCA), we have applied for state bond bill funds and plan to apply for additional grants. These grants require matching funds from the community, and donations will also help us get started with the repairs. Please give as generously as you can, through the BHCA website. (BHCA is a 501(c)(3) organization and so contributions are tax-deductible).
If you have questions about the proposed plans, wish to help with fundraising, or just want to be on the mailing list, please contact FOPAM@boltonhillmd.org.
–Lisa Summers
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