City Plans Park Honoring Elfreth's Alley Advocate Dolly Ottey
The Old City District has unveiled plans to transform an empty lot adjacent to historic Elfreth's Alley into a public park honoring the late resident who played a pivotal role in preserving the street. The proposed park, dubbed Dolly Ottey Park, will feature minimalist landscaping with just a few trees, seating areas, and planters – a deliberate design choice aimed at completing the project before next year's 250th anniversary of US independence.
Ottey, who lived on Elfreth's Alley in addition to owning the Hearthstone Restaurant nearby, was a key figure in the formation of the Elfreth's Alley Association in 1934. Her efforts helped secure the street's status as a National Historic Landmark in the 1960s, thereby safeguarding it from demolition during Interstate 95 construction.
The park proposal has sparked excitement among community members, who have expressed desire for a functional and comfortable public space with ample seating. While initial feedback has been positive, officials plan to gather more input from neighbors as part of their ongoing planning process.
To support the project, a fundraising campaign has launched, aiming to raise $60,000 by springtime. If successful, construction is expected to commence in February, with completion by March. The park's design will be refined based on community feedback, which will be shared online as more information becomes available.
Dolly Ottey Park promises to become an integral part of Elfreth's Alley's fabric, providing a serene space for locals and tourists alike to enjoy the historic street's charm.
The Old City District has unveiled plans to transform an empty lot adjacent to historic Elfreth's Alley into a public park honoring the late resident who played a pivotal role in preserving the street. The proposed park, dubbed Dolly Ottey Park, will feature minimalist landscaping with just a few trees, seating areas, and planters – a deliberate design choice aimed at completing the project before next year's 250th anniversary of US independence.
Ottey, who lived on Elfreth's Alley in addition to owning the Hearthstone Restaurant nearby, was a key figure in the formation of the Elfreth's Alley Association in 1934. Her efforts helped secure the street's status as a National Historic Landmark in the 1960s, thereby safeguarding it from demolition during Interstate 95 construction.
The park proposal has sparked excitement among community members, who have expressed desire for a functional and comfortable public space with ample seating. While initial feedback has been positive, officials plan to gather more input from neighbors as part of their ongoing planning process.
To support the project, a fundraising campaign has launched, aiming to raise $60,000 by springtime. If successful, construction is expected to commence in February, with completion by March. The park's design will be refined based on community feedback, which will be shared online as more information becomes available.
Dolly Ottey Park promises to become an integral part of Elfreth's Alley's fabric, providing a serene space for locals and tourists alike to enjoy the historic street's charm.
LET'S HOPE THEY REACH THOSE $60,000 GOALS SOON! IT'D BE AWESOME TO SEE DOLLY OTTEY PARK COME ALIVE IN FEBRUARY.
! A park dedicated to Dolly Ottey? That woman was a total legend 
. I mean, preserving Elfreth's Alley as a National Historic Landmark? Game changer 
. It's amazing how one person can make such a huge impact.
. And $60k fundraising goal is doable, fingers crossed 
! Can you imagine how peaceful it'll be to sit among those trees and planters? Perfect spot for a quiet picnic or people-watching 
️.
It's like, finally someone is giving her the recognition she deserves after all she did for Elfreth's Alley. 250 years of independence to celebrate, how cool is that?! 
I hope they get that $60k goal, can't wait to see it come together! And a public park with seating areas, perfect spot for locals and tourists alike to chill out. I'm imagining it now, walking down Elfreth's Alley and then sitting in the park, enjoying some peace... 
It's gonna be beautiful, just imagine all the pics that'll be taken there 
Let's hope they hit that fundraising goal and make this park a reality soon! 
. On one hand, it's awesome that they're finally doing something to honor Dolly Ottey's legacy, you know? I mean, who wouldn't want a park in front of their favorite restaurant? 
But at the same time, I think the design might be kinda boring... like, a few trees and seating areas is cool and all, but where's the flair? 
Ugh, my mind is already conflicting on this one 
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