Projects

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     The Friends and Cascade Library management have shared a vision for more than a year: the creation of a picturesque and functional outdoor space behind the library that would offer a safe and welcoming area for relaxation, family gatherings and community events.

      Designed as a four-phase project initially, the Friends agreed to fund Phase 1 to get the dream rolling. With Cascade Township’s approval of the construction plans in March and the Downtown Development Authority’s approval of funds for phases 2-4, the dream is about to become a reality, according to Lulu Brown, Cascade Regional Manager I.

      “It is so exciting to have everything come together and with such enthusiasm on the part of the township,” Brown said. “The library is already a gathering place for people in the community, and I think the enhancements to the outdoor space are going to make it even more of a destination for those who want to commune with nature or simply have a beautiful place to share with friends or family.”

      With funding secured for the entire project, all four phases will be completed simultaneously, Brown said, with construction slated to begin this fall and be completed by spring 2024.

      The outdoor park will include perennial garden spaces, seating areas, a fountain, benches, a rain garden, enhanced woodland areas, granite stone trails, picnic areas, sidewalks, woodland play areas, up to a 60-foot pavilion, nature trails and much more. 

      “There are still a lot of details to nail down,” Brown said, “but it’s truly a labor of love.” One of those details involves landscaping, gardening and maintenance of the new area. While the Parks Committee and township expect to handle the majority of the work, the Friends also believe some of their volunteers will want to lend a hand.

      “Many of our volunteers love landscaping and gardening,” according to Joe David, Friends president. “And, several of them have already said they want to be involved. I think we’re all just so excited about this and want to do everything we can to ensure that it is a success.”

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