Matfield Green Works is starting the new year with a new dream: The Green. “We are holding onto our dream of a new gallery and welcome center in the former Bank Art Space but shifting focus to an immediately achievable goal: The Green is a welcoming park on the property we own across the street from the Bank,” the board of directors announced Thursday. “We are excited about this simple project that will benefit the entire community.” According to the board, the Green will provide a much-needed public toilet, accessible parking, picnic shelter, drinking fountain/ pet watering and bottle filling station, wayfinding displays and a bike repair stand. A low serpentine wall of limestone blocks and native plantings will unify the site. The high-visibility northwest corner, at the intersection of Flint Hills National Scenic Byway and Bocook Street, is reserved for a future land art project. “The Green will offer comfort, shade, and opportunity for unplanned encounters for byway travelers, cyclists, Flint Hills visitors and locals. It will invite passers-by to get out of the car or off the bike in the heart of Matfield Green,” the board said. “Please join us in bringing this auspicious corner to life with a financial contribution to Matfield Green Works.” The total project cost is $50,000, with Matfield Green needing to raise $35,000 to make it happen.
Source: Emporia Gazette
