10/21/15 - The Weatherwax Foundation recently donated the final $50,000 piece of a $394,000 puzzle to break ground on the CP Federal City Square in downtown Jackson.
After CP Federal Credit Union officials announced a $100,000 contribution toward the construction of the Glidden Parker mural project - and penned a naming rights agreement with the City of Jackson - Weatherwax Foundation officials donated $50,000 to raise the necessary funds needed for the climate-controlled gallery site in Horace Blackman Park.
“The Weatherwax Foundation appreciates efforts to develop and improve Jackson’s downtown,” said Maria Dotterweich, executive director of the foundation. “We hope the preservation and highlighting of this unique mural and the improved park amenities will encourage residents and visitors to meet.”
CP Federal City Square will serve as a focal point of a current downtown placemaking effort in Jackson’s newly completed urban core park. The design of the structure will not only protect and preserve the 9 foot by 28 foot mural designed by famed artist Glidden Parker, but will include an art exhibit viewing area as well.
“The Weatherwax Foundation is a great supporter of the arts in our community,” said Janet Meyer, chairperson of the Jackson Public Arts Commission. “Their contribution assures that future generations will be able to enjoy the Glidden Parker mural.”
A groundbreaking ceremony is set for 11:30 a.m. Friday, Oct. 30, at the site in Horace Blackman Park, and is open to the general public. Construction work is slated to begin this spring.
“This commitment from the Weatherwax Foundation is the final keystone on years of hard work to make this proejct a reality,” said Vice Mayor Derek Dobies, who has spearheaded the effort to house the historic mural. “We hope their leadership encourages others to take an active role in the public art and the revitalization of our downtown.”
Funds for the project, came from the National Endowment for the Arts ($50,000), the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs ($75,000), the Jackson Public Arts Commission ($119,000), CP Federal Credit Union ($100,000) and the Weatherwax Foundation ($50,000).