by J. Brooks Terry
Staff Writer
If all goes according to the construction plan, the Veterans Memorial Wall and Park should be complete by Memorial Day.
The wall, which displays the names of more than 1,500 local military personnel who died while on active duty, is the centerpiece of the approximately two-acre park.
According to Better Jacksonville Plan spokesperson Lisa Rowe, drainage installation and precast concrete bench seating is currently being addressed at the site.
“Work began after the last Jaguars football season and we’re now into our third month of hard construction,” said Rowe. “I can say we’ve all been very pleased with the progress we’re making and that there have been no unexpected problems, concerns or delays to speak of. It’s been, for the most part, a very smooth process.”
Rowe added a mayoral-appointed committee has been overseeing the construction efforts.
Budgeted at $1.5 million, Rowe said hardscape, lighting, landscaping and irrigation have been included in park design plans.
“This project obviously carries a lot of special meaning,” she said. “We wanted to honor our veterans and to provide a place for families and friends to reflect on the lives of their loved ones. Upon its completion later this year, we believe we will have accomplished that goal.”
Representatives from Mayor John Peyton’s office concurred, calling the park a “wonderful addition to the area.”
“But not just to the Sports Complex,” said spokesperson Heather Murphy. “It’s really more of an enhancement of the wall itself, which is a vital piece of our heritage and history.”