Redesigning the building planned for Lisa Link Peace Park has brought renovations for tiny park on State Street back within budget.
The building -- which is to include public bathrooms, a visitor center and a room for police -- was budgeted for $350,000, which was to be paid for by a private fund raising campaign. But the initial building proposal was estimated at $450,000. The committee overseeing the renovations decided it would be difficult to raise that much money.
The building was redesigned, removing a large column from the center.
"By removing the column we save $50,000 to $60,000. With other changes and refinement, we will be able to be in the budget," says Ald. Mike Verveer, whose district includes the park.
While the building is being funded entirely by donations, the rest of the park's renovations -- which will include a performance area, landscaping and a water spout -- are being funded with $650,000 in TIF money.
The project will be delayed, Verveer says. "It now seems the earliest we'll be able to break down is January, which will push our completion back to late summer 2010."
