Ariel-Foundation Park has an incredible amount of outdoor entertainment for Ohio residents of all ages to enjoy, but to keep up with the vast required maintenance, the “Friends of the Park” are holding a capital campaign to raise funds for the 250-acre property.
Since Ariel-Foundation Park opened in 2015, it has been a top recreational and entertainment park for Knox County residents, as well as thousands coming from central Ohio and beyond. The goal is to raise $50,000 to help with ongoing care and maintenance of the land to continue providing a premier experience for visitors, according to Foundation Park Conservancy board member Jeffrey Scott.
“A venue such as Ariel-Foundation Park requires a great deal of care and maintenance to keep the environment in pristine condition,” Scott said. “While much of this work is done by volunteers and a small, dedicated staff, it is the responsibility of the Foundation Park Conservancy to ensure that the resources are available to address a variety of needs as they arise."
The conservancy also wants to make updates, as warranted.
"Additionally, there are plans for further development of certain sections of the park and creative enhancements to integrate the park experience and the bike trail system through which thousands travel every year," Scott said.
Areas of focus once the money is obtained include upgrading the River of Glass to bring a safer, cleaner and more inviting experience for park attendees. The funds will also be directed toward development of the west end of the park. There are also plans to tend to the bicycle trail systems as well as ongoing maintenance of the sidewalks, walking paths and event spaces.
According to the park’s website, Ariel-Foundation Park in Mount Vernon was created on the former site of a glass-making factory. There are architectural ruins to view on the site, as well as lakes, walking trails in the woods, sculptures, an observation tower and a museum. There are also the beautifully landscaped Tree of Life Labyrinth, near the Schnormeier Events Center, and a wildflower garden and arboretum. There are connections between the Kokosing Gap Trail and the Heart of Ohio Trail.
The Foundation Park Conservancy has relied on a group Scott referred to as “Friends of the Park,” whom he described as a solid base of longtime supporters the conservancy is grateful for. They not only helped with upkeep during challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, but they also helped by giving a sense of positivity moving forward.
“We are hopefully optimistic about the future of both Ariel-Foundation Park and our community in the year ahead,” Scott said.
Anyone who would like to donate and become a “Friend of the Park” can do so at arielfoundationpark.org and click “Support the Park.” This is a tax-deductible gift, and Scott said no gift is too small.
While Ariel-Foundation Park is officially open from April 1 through Nov. 15, some areas are accessible throughout the year. Daily operations are from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
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