Photos by Rick Hiduk
Bradford County Veterans Memorial Park Association (BCVMPA) leader Joe Doherty announced this week that granite memorial pavers, 14 benches and one large monument ordered last fall for the park under construction at the Towanda side of the Veterans Memorial Bridge across the Susquehanna River (above) are expected to arrive around February 7.
“We cannot install them until the weather breaks but, when we do, we will surely let everyone know well in advance,” Doherty stated.
Contractor Middendorf Construction, working hand in hand with BCVMPA, the Borough of Towanda and architect Strosser Architecture & Conservation prepared the ground well in advance of the winter freeze to receive installation.
“We expect no difficulties other than some time lost for which we sincerely apologize,” said Doherty, noting that production of the part elements took longer than expected.
Upon completion of this stage of the project, BCVMPA looks forward to the final stage, which include installation of two bronze statues, a rotunda and the rest of the monuments.
Doherty refers to the memorial park endeavor as “your project” when he salutes the public and the press.
“We mean exactly that,” Doherty asserted. “This project will bring honor to all of our veterans, you, your family and friends. When it is complete, our staff of all volunteers will disband with a formal ceremony to give thanks to God that we were able, with your help to pull this off.”
Funding for the final stage of park construction has not yet been secured.
“Looking into the future, stage four will require some creative thinking in order to bring new funding to this project,” said Doherty “I know in my heart that the good people and the fantastic businesses in our county are supportive of this venture. We thank you for your ongoing support and like you; we wait with baited breath for new construction to start again.”
Readers interested in helping with the project can find additional information at www.bcvmpa.org.