Progress continues at Washington courthouse grounds project, Spring 2005
by Bob Lander, Summer 2005
The Washington courthouse grounds project is moving right along. The initial planting of native trees and shrubs in the garden area at the Porter Street end was completed in April. These complement the Norway spruce donated by John and Judy Tole to kick off the project. The spruce was planted by Steve Schadler.
The project has been progressing since March 2004, when RLEP introduced the idea to about 30 invited, interested people, including county and town officials, civic organizations and clubs, and private citizens. An RLEP ad hoc committee developed the design and a time line that moves the project through the end of 2005. Last fall, RLEP, along with other community groups, raised about $5,000 to kick off the project through a program presented by Ron Maxwell about the Civil War in film.
Several community organizations are lending their ongoing support to this community effort. The Rappahannock Board of Supervisors gave their okay for the design late last year. The Rappahannock Garden Club was consulted regarding the first phase of the project this spring and will contribute their expertise to selecting the plants for the next phase, in the fall. RLEP has also discussed the project's purpose and design with the planning commissioners, the Washington Town Council, the Rappahannock Association for the Arts and the Community, and the Rappahannock Lions Club. All support the project's goal of being by the community, for the community.
Many individuals have volunteered their time and effort to the design and execution of the project so far. Bruce Jones, Marc Malik, and landscape architect Jay Monroe collaborated in choosing the plants. Candace Clough planted the area according to the design previously approved by RLEP's ad hoc committee. Plants were obtained at cost from an area nursery. Several organizations have pledged to contribute funds to offset these costs. RLEP is soliciting help for planting and maintenance activities through the summer and fall months. Jim Gannon continues to research the nuances of restoring the Civil War monument as a part of the overall endeavor.
The overall design for the courthouse grounds project is subtle and nonintrusive. It includes outdoor furniture to make the grounds friendlier to visitors. Benches, inviting garden plots, and "rooms" off the walkways will be installed for the community's use throughout the year.
RLEP will be offering the rooms, benches, paving stones, and bricks as memorials or sponsorships at nominal costs. Organizations and individuals may also sponsor larger plants, which will have plaques with the donor's name or with a dedication specified by the donor. All proceeds are tax deductible and will be used to purchase the outdoor furniture and plants and to maintain the grounds. RLEP will keep the community updated on the project as it progresses.
Individuals and groups wanting to contribute time to the gardening activity should contact Marc Malik at 540-987-3155.
Read more about the Washinton Courthouse grounds project:
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