Town Common Project Committee Meeting

Monday, July 26, 2004 (6:30 pm)

 

In Attendance:  Judy Petersen Co-Chair, Donna Dunn, Co-Chair/Treasurer, Bill Morse, Paula Mangini, Nancy Rizza (Pending Member)

 

Bandstand Design Update:

Architect Intern Karl Fandrich (Black Brook Road) has moved to Florida where he has been offered a full-time position.  He will be missed; not only was he an up-and-coming architect, but also an enthusiastic Dunbarton resident and member of a performing band.  His talents and special insight will be missed.  Before leaving he was able to recommend a site on the common and bare-bones design concept.  Some issues discussed:

Site: Southwest corner of Common in area of Caleb Stark Statue

Why: Allows audience to look down upon performance; think theatre

      Seating & viewing more comfortable and natural

      Low end of slope minimizes Bandstand height - abutter friendly

      Uses somewhat open space; least impact to mature trees    

      Placement visually expands and introduces Common area           

      Provides scenic view of Town Hall/Gardens/School St when utilized

          by pedestrians as casual seating

          Design Concept:  Semi-circular shape* with open front (on grade if possible)

 Why: Shape embraces natural contour of land  

           Larger performance area

           Maximizes versatility

           ADA costs reduced or eliminated if on grade   

           On grade allows for lower height & profile

Construction in this spot seems the most promising, but feasibility may be contingent on the straightening of Robert Rogers Rd and elimination of the Y intersection.  Chief Nelson advises the Grant Proposal for this safety change has been approved - it is now up to the Dunbarton voters at Town Meeting. 

 

Everyone was provided with a plot plan of the Town Common and conceptual sketch.  In the meantime, all are requested to obtain as many photos and dimensions of other community bandstands as possible.

 

Fundraising

Bank Balance is $37,393.73; current goal remains $50,000.  New ideas tossed about but nothing concrete except for making and selling of various food items this summer and fall (wild berry jams, spiced pears, etc.).  Will continue to solicit items for traditional Election & Town Meeting raffles.  Possibly find matching $ sponsors ?? 

 

*The bandstand in Center Harbor, NH, provides a reference for the concept of shape and slope only.  The actual structure itself is not being considered.      

 

Respectfully Submitted, Donna Dunn Co-Chair