Work has begun on a new park at Greenville Downtown Airport (GMU), the largest general aviation airport in South Carolina.
Earth-moving equipment worked for several days to prepare raw land for transformation into the new park. “When the heavy equipment arrived it was an incredible moment for those of us who have worked on this project for over two years,” said Joe Frasher, airport director. “It is finally happening!”
“At the Runway Cafe last week a lady was told about the park and she said, “this park can’t be built soon enough!” and my grandchildren agree,” added Hank Brown, owner of Greenville Jet Center. “During the 53 years I have worked at the airport, I have seen how people love coming here to see planes and helicopters, but they have never had a place where they can really enjoy it in a park setting. Kids will be able to be kids. Adults will be able to walk the exercise path. School children will learn about aviation — all starting sometime this fall.”
The project has begun phase one of construction, according to Parks McLeod of McLeod Landscape Architects, the company who designed the park. “We have approved design plans and permits. The land has been rough graded. Now we are ready to install an irrigation system and lay the ground work for the exercise walking path, AKA ‘The Taxiway’ and the main walkways that will look like runways,” stated McLeod. “Then it will be time to plant the grass.”
“Over the summer the grass will grow and we hope that the donated funds will as well,” added Frasher. “We have raised enough to pay for phase one, since several companies have donated their services or provided them almost at cost. Now we need to raise money for the playground equipment, amphitheatre to be used for educational school groups, and a picnic pavilion.”
“Panagakos Paving is literally paving the way for a great park with their generous spirit!” he continued. “They have done an incredible job for us over the years with airport projects so I know they will do a great job on the park’s trails. We are so thankful to have such community oriented companies in Greenville.”
For more information: GreenvilleDowntownAirport.com
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