The Net Resource Foundation is looking for individuals or businesses to sponsor benches in the south Chattanooga community beautification project. In partnership with the Westside Baptist Church, the open space at 4000 Hughes Ave. will enhance the community by offering an outdoor performance venue, tree-covered paths for reflection and meditation, a location for summer and after-school programs and a community garden. Ten benches need sponsorships, with each bench costing $700. The project will be completed in the fall of this year.
The price tag of the new Alton Park project is estimated to be $52,000. This includes the outdoor performance venue, meditation area and even locally sourced and sustainable trees and vegetation. Eleven trees will be planted, with the help of the UNFoundation and the City of Chattanooga’s Division of Urban Forestry, on March 13 from 9 a.m.-noon.
Net Resource Foundation Executive Director Raquetta Dotley is applying for infrastructure grants through the city, and she is asking that businesses consider sponsoring their park benches. "Investing into The Hughes Project signifies a shift in revitalization for the South Chattanooga community. We encourage businesses who would like to be a part of this much-deserved revitalization to collaborate with us by purchasing a bench that will not only add aesthetic value to the community but show their support for continued investment in South Chattanooga,” said Ms. Dotley. EPB was the first business to sponsor the project, donating $1,500. Ms. Dotley says the park will provide vital outdoor resources for the families living in this urban area. The Net Resource Foundation is actively seeking donations and volunteers for this project.