In a recent special meeting of the Heath Park Board, members discussed the long-awaited establishment of a donor garden in the city’s central park area, a project initially proposed in 2020 but delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The garden aims to honor significant contributions from local donors and enhance the park's aesthetic appeal.

The proposed location for the donor garden is strategically placed along a high-traffic pathway, ensuring visibility for visitors. Board members expressed enthusiasm about the central placement, which is expected to attract attention and encourage community engagement. The design includes stone columns that will feature etched names and logos of donors, providing a lasting tribute to their support.

Suzanne Fanny, a board member, highlighted the collaborative effort in bringing the project to fruition, noting that local manufacturers would provide the stone columns at a more affordable rate than initially anticipated. The estimated cost for each column is around $6,000, which allows for multiple names to be engraved, making it a cost-effective solution for honoring donors.

The board also discussed the potential for future expansion of the garden, allowing for additional names to be added as more donations are received. This flexibility is seen as a significant advantage, ensuring that the garden can grow alongside community support.

Members unanimously approved the initial plans for the donor garden, which includes three columns and a bench, signaling a commitment to recognizing the contributions of local supporters. The board plans to finalize the design details, including the height and font of the engravings, in collaboration with the community.

This initiative not only aims to beautify the park but also strengthens community ties by acknowledging the generosity of local donors. As the project moves forward, it is expected to enhance the park experience for residents and visitors alike, fostering a sense of pride and connection within the Heath community.