Preliminary work on the park dedicated to victims and survivors of the Chardon High School shooting should begin next week after the fundraising committee met its goal, said an enthusiastic Steve Turpin, the relieved project coordinator.
The memorial will serve as a permanent reminder to honor the lives lost and acknowledge the community that together to support one another in the aftermath of the 2012 Chardon High School shooting tragedy, Turpin said.
It was Mapledale Farm landscaping that decided to take on the project and donate a projected $152,218 of services.
The project estimated cost is $317,934. The committee has raised about $342,132 through cash donations ($171,920); committed donations ($17,994); and in-kind commitments ($152,218).
Turpin said fundraising totals are expected to be over $400,000 by the time fundraising is over, which will help with park maintenance.
The park at 220 Basquin Drive, known to residents as the Chalet, will include:
• nature trail
• outdoor fitness center
• children’s play center
• “Echoes of the heart” monument designed by the sculptor Matt Albright
• benches and recognition plaques
Turpin took over the project in spring of 2015 when energy and donations were in a lull. The retired engineer spent many years as a professional project and business manager.
Chardon city engineer Doug Courtney helped Turpin on a building schedule and also contributed all the drawings and technical specifications.
City manager Randy Sharpe and Public Service Director Paul Hornyak have approved the package. City council is expected to vote on it at its July 14 meeting with administration’s reccomendation.