LAWRENCE — Lawrence is sponsoring a contest to name the city’s newest park – a long and narrow wetlands situated next to Monarch Beverage Co. that someday will provide a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of busy Pendleton Pike.
Monarch deeded about six acres on the eastern edge of its site at 9347 Pendleton Pike to the city for $10 in late 2011 so the wetlands contained there could be preserved and used as a park. Work already has been done to reclaim the area, including restoration of a tributary of Bells Run and planting of native plants and trees. Plans are still being developed, but they tentatively call for construction of a path for walkers, cyclists and birdwatchers, as well as places for visitors to observe the wetlands.
The city will accept entries for naming the park through April 11. Residents may submit entries in two ways:
• E-mail: Send an e-mail with the suggested park name and your name, address and phone number to mayor@cityoflawrence.org. Put “wetlands park contest” in the subject line.
• U.S. mail: Send the suggested name and your name, address and phone number to Wetlands Park Contest, c/o City of Lawrence, 9001 E. 59th St., Suite 301, Lawrence, IN 46216.
Mayor Jessup and members of the Lawrence Redevelopment Commission will choose from the entries and the mayor will announce the park’s name in late April.