Circumstances beyond anyone’s control ranging from the economy to infrastructure issues have prevented the property from its full redevelopment potential. While the future of the bank building itself remains to be seen, I am pleased to share exciting news about a grassroots initiative to transform the barren parking lot into a thriving community destination place! This transformation will mitigate the unattractive conditions of the property and provide a safe outdoor venue for community gathering, which is even more important these days until a vaccine is found. For full draft details of this innovative and adaptive reuse, developed by Katie Giganti, President of the Mount Airy Arts Council, please refer to the attached plan. This volunteer-based project is being made possible through mostly donated time and materials! If you are interested in helping, please contact Jim Stargel at [email protected]. A donation board recognizing donations and the time and talents will have a special place on the project site. In addition to the donations and project plans, we need a core group of handy and helpful volunteers that would like to help paint the light poles, paint ground areas, cut trees and limbs, install wood panels over the windows and general labor! The project will be started soon, with most items being completed on Saturday, August 8th and a dedication ceremony on Sunday, August 9th at 5:00 p.m. (originally scheduled for 4:00 p.m. but delayed to try and avoid the heat) with music, light beer and wine!! We look forward to hearing your volunteer interests and hope to see you at the dedication ceremony, and in the weeks afterwards at the new downtown park! Thank you to the Dream Team that was assembled to manage this project; Jim Stargel and his wife Lisa, Katie Giganti – Mount Airy Arts Council, Tina Swanson – Beautification Committee, and of course – Barney Quinn and the Town Staff! Thank you to Mount Airy Town Councilmembers that will be assisting for their “hands-on” support! Together Making It Happen!!
- Mayor Patrick Rockinberg
Bank Building Phoenix Project Design Proposal
