If you love Tony's Bench and the Ironwoods Entryway Sign - here is your chance to support a third art installation from Marc Archambault of Hammerhead Stoneworks.
As presented in the Annual Homeowner's Meeting:
A Clearing in the Woods
Kaiser family’s donation to add an improvement to the common space
Matthew Feldt shared that after Jim Kaiser, a longtime and beloved Ironwoods neighbor and active community member passed away, his family was moved by the support and love they received from the neighbors and are moved to honor his memory. Jim loved the Ironwoods trails and his family wants to donate $10,000 to Ironwoods to create a place where people could be outdoors and commune with each other in the common area that Jim loved so much.
The board contacted Hammerhead stoneworks who created the Ironwoodsfront sign and Tony’s bench to provide some ideas for the area where the picnic bench is located. The idea is to build a patio area surrounded by three benches. Matthew shared the stonework and pictures of the ideas. The diameter of the projected area would be ~12-14’
Neighbors have already improved the area near the common space by adding staircases and gravel paving and it was thought that this area would be ideal for further enhancement.
Mark from Hammerhead Stoneworks has been in conversation with Jim’s daughter June. The total potential cost would be $15,000 and the board is proposing that the Board contribute $2,500 from reserves and then hold a go fund-me for the rest of the $2,500.
A lively discussion occurred regarding location, style, maintenance and cost for the proposed common space upgrade. Some neighbors expressed concern about the size of the project, the maintenance of the area, and a concern for keeping the woods as they are. Other neighbors noted that this is a very small footprint compared to the current 20 acres of total open space in Ironwoods and this will provide a gathering place for neighbors. It was noted that the final design will be developed when the artist visits the site and the concerns raised will be conveyed to the artist.
A motion was made to support that idea of a project in this area to provide a gathering space, without committing any funds. That vote passed 19 to 1.
We are planning to replace the dilapidated picnic table in the common area with a stone patio, benches and mosaic.
Go to the GoFundMe page to learn more and help contribute to the project.
Or, if you prefer, you can mail or drop a check off at my house: 108 Edgehill Place
Thanks for you support!