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Parks board backs memorial recommendation for Riverwalk, will consult Lorton family
Summary
The board recommended the city council be asked to approve a memorial for Lorton on the Riverwalk, favoring a bronze plaque on a pedestal if the family agrees, or otherwise the pedestal informational sign the family prefers; funding would come from private donations.
The Parks Advisory Board voted to recommend that the common council approve a Riverwalk memorial recognizing Lorton, asking staff to consult the family on final design and proceed with a bronze plaque on a pedestal if the family agrees, or with the family-preferred informational pedestal sign if not.
Tyler, in marketing and fund development, presented four design options for the proposed recognition: a traditional bronze plaque (various styles and price ranges), Riverwalk directional signs (about $200 each), a smaller informational pedestal sign (about $1,100), and a set of 14 pole banners along the path. Tyler said Lorton's family recommended option 3, the pedestal sign, and that staff would work with private donors to fund the project. "We came to you today, Sadie and I put together four options for you all to consider," Tyler said during the presentation.
Board discussion centered on honoring the family's wishes and choosing a design that provides context about Lorton while fitting the Riverwalk setting. Some board members suggested combining banners with a single interpretive plaque so passersby could learn more at a central location. The board debated placement; members identified the section between Main Street and Jackson Street as the preferred location for the recognition but noted final naming or formal designation would be a council decision.
Motion and vote: a board member moved that staff consult with the family and, if the family agrees, proceed with a bronze plaque on a pedestal; if the family prefers the pedestal informational sign, proceed with that. The motion was seconded and passed with no recorded opposition. The board's action is a recommendation to the common council, which must approve formal placement and any naming.
Next steps: Staff will consult with the family on the pedestal-plaque option and return a formal recommendation and cost estimate to the council. Funding will be sought from private donors as staff develop the final design.
