Things are beginning to take shape at Brewton’s newest city park.
On Monday, crews were working on landscaping at the old Fair Store site, located next to the Bank of Brewton. For months, equipment has worked to clear and level the property. Now, the beautification process is beginning.
“The park was left empty after the demolition of the old Fair Store, which was also a skating rink in more recent years,” said Connie Baggett, Brewton’s director of program management. “The building, owned by the Kelly family, was torn down due to its deteriorated state. The city had been negotiating a new lease for the parking lot downtown owned by the Kelly family as well, and offered to take over the lot to be used as a park.”
But, the project won’t stop at just a park, Baggett said.
“Carol Gordy generously agreed to allow the city to paint the side of her building as a mural to complement the park,” she said. “The city was able to save the slab near the wall for use as a stage. Work on the park, to include establishing grass, planting live oaks and other greenery, should take another month. The next phase will include work on the mural.”
Currently, the city is working to secure an artist for the project, Baggett said.
“The possibilities for this space are endless,” she said. “ It could include picnic areas, small events, the farmers’ market, movies, concerts and other outdoor performances.”