Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: THURSDAY, February 2, 1995 TAG: 9503150002
SECTION: NEIGHBORS PAGE: S5 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: CHARLES STEBBINS
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
John Abbott, Salem's city engineer, said the work will include reinforced stone walls around the pond, new walkways and landscaping.
One of the walkways will run across the small dam between the upper and lower ponds, and part of the walkway along Main Street will be rebuilt to allow more viewing space for pedestrians.
The gazebo, a centerpiece in the park, is not part of the renovation, Abbott said, because it was renovated several years ago and is in good shape. New walkways to the gazebo will be built.
Abbott said some of the preliminary work was done by city crews, but most of the renovation is being done by H&S Construction Co. of Roanoke.
No total cost has been determined, Abbott said, but he expects it will be less than $200,000.
The ducks, a prime feature of the park, will not be harmed during the renovation. Abbott said they will remain in the three-acre park and still will be able to make what use they wish of the pond. The water level has been lowered for the work, but Abbott said enough water will remain to support the ducks and fish.
Lake Spring, on West Main Street at Fourth Street, is one of the oldest parks in Salem.
At one time it was the site of a resort hotel. But in the 1890s, the hotel burned in an early-morning fire that broke out just as a large dance party was leaving. The partygoers, in their tuxedos and gowns, joined in a bucket brigade in a futile attempt to save the hotel.
by CNB