Rotary Park Improvements Continue with Fountain Installation

CAPE MAY — Construction and improvements for Rotary Park in Cape May continued on Mon., June 27 with the installation of the flagpole, pedestal and fountain in the center of the park. These significant pieces to the near-final reconstruction of the park were funded through the Fund for Cape May (FFCM).
The flagpole and surrounding area were funded through the FFCM, specifically the O’Hara family, which owns and operates popular Cape May retail venues, Uncle Bill’s Pancake House and Sunset Liquors. The fountain and pedestal were donated by Curtis Bashaw, Will Riccio and Tom and Sue Carroll, all of whom supported the FFCM. Both pieces were manufactured in New England. A. Matalucci and Son Memorial Artisans was contracted to cut and install a piece of Vermont granite to cap the fountain.
“The City of Cape May is very thankful for the generous financial donations of our residents and businesses through the Fund for Cape May,” says Mayor Edward Mahaney. “The funding has resulted in the restoration of Rotary Park as a timeless, environmentally friendly, versatile venue, which unites the downtown area as a welcoming plaza for public events, and a retreat in the midst of nature.”
The City’s assigned contractor for the project, Command Company, is on schedule to complete all contracted work as of the beginning of July. However, for safety and settlement purposes, the park will remain closed to the public until the “soft opening” events scheduled in late July. Following the holiday weekend festivities further improvements, funded by the FFCM will be made. These include the installation of perimeter fencing, landscaping and the assembly of the Victorian gazebo.
A Grand Opening celebration is tentatively scheduled for the end of July. The 11 Rotary Bandstand concerts currently scheduled for July 1-20 are rescheduled for later in July and August, or relocated to Convention Hall. The remaining concerts scheduled for July 22 through Sept. 4 will be presented in the refurbished Rotary Park.