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Park committee outlines pond landscaping, lighting fundraising and replica-bridge plans
Summary
Board members and volunteers described progress on the pond sod, a proposed $30,000 lighting project around the pond, and early plans for a replica bridge; fundraising and sponsorship logistics were the focus.
Members of the Henry County Parks Board and volunteers updated each other on multiple park-improvement projects, focusing on pond landscaping, a proposed perimeter lighting project, and a replica-bridge initiative that will require separate fundraising.
Board member Sheldon (committee lead for the pond project) said sod installation is imminent pending a contractor’s schedule and that the park is coordinating watering equipment and fittings so newly laid sod can be irrigated. A recently purchased two-inch trash pump and hoses will support watering; staff said they were sourcing the remaining fittings.
On lighting, project volunteers and a consulting lighting engineer have produced an early cost estimate of roughly $30,000 to install eight LED poles around the pond. The lights are expected to draw low wattage (roughly 80–100 watts per fixture). Volunteers reported about $3,000 committed from Friends of the Park and said they would solicit pole sponsors who could receive small recognition plaques on the poles. The board discussed pole color (bronze/brown vs. black), placement, and the option of solar power but said tying into electric service is the preferred approach because of reliability and existing nearby power sources.
Volunteers also described progress on a replica bridge project; fundraising details and a budget will be brought to the board later. Board members emphasized they want a clear proposal, cost estimate and donor plan before any construction or procurement begins.
Other site items reported: work to repave the pathway across the dam remains pending contractor access and scheduling; signage and small pavers are being considered near the pond to prevent foot-traffic damage to planted areas; Helen (volunteer) will finalize plant selections for a small island planting; and the shelter-house painting project has a notification and funds set aside for completion.
Board members asked staff to clarify the process for accepting restricted donations (e.g., poll sponsorships) and recommended routing donations through established nonprofit Friends of the Park accounts to manage restricted funds. Volunteers said they will return with donor lists and more detailed cost estimates for board approval.
