Some pleasant changes are coming in the next few weeks to Irwin Park. The New Canaan Garden Club got approval from the Town Council to install a stone maze for young children in the park. The group expects the maze to be ready in a matter of weeks.
Gillian Foster, a Garden Club representative, took her case to the Town Council Wednesday night, and answered any questions they had. She said the group specifically chose a maze instead of normal playground equipment to give Irwin Park a distinctive feel. I always heard that you didnt want playgrounds, with swings and things there, she said. Thats something every other place has. We tried to design something fairly different.
The maze will also have an educational component, geared specifically toward young children. All passages will be numbered, with children starting at one and counting stones as they move through the maze. When they get to 13, they reach the Mystical entrance to the Magic Mushroom Circle. This will be a central courtyard around a large tree, which will have stone mushrooms where children can sit and enjoy the shade.
Foster also assured the town that once the maze was installed, there would be practically no cost for upkeep. Since the structure will be made from stone, there is little concern about it deteriorating or needing maintenance. However, Public Works Assistant Director Tiger Mann, also on hand, mentioned that the stone seats around the tree would need to be moved as the roots swelled above ground level, but that would require only a minor adjustment, and would not be for some time.
Having already consulted with the Parks and Recreation department, the Garden Club hopes to move quickly with construction. Local architect Richard Bergman has already completes the design of the maze, and once work begins he estimates it should not take more than a few weeks. Wed like to get to it right away, Foster told the council. As soon as you give us approval, well get back to the masons and tell them to get started.
?
Click here to follow Daily Voice and receive free news updates.
