By JAN LARSON McLAUGHLIN
BG Independent News
Amish builder Merle Yoder has built many a gazebo – but never one quite like the structure going up now on Wooster Green.
“This is definitely bigger than normal,” Yoder said as he climbed down from his ladder. “It’s been challenging.”
Yoder and the rest of the crew from Mt. Hope Fence are erecting the gazebo under the curious eyes of pedestrians, dog-walkers, bicyclists and motorists that pass by the Wooster Green at the corner of West Wooster, South Church and South Grove streets.
The crew started by setting posts two weeks ago. They hope to have the 28-foot by 28-foot structure done by the end of next week.
Yoder, from Sugar Creek, said the open gazebo will have a metal roof and four sidewalks leading to it.
As the structure takes shape, it’s been the focus of much gawking – especially when the nimble workers scamper on top of the gazebo.
“I’m excited about it. It looks pretty cool,” said Nadine Edwards, a member of the Wooster Green planning committee.
The Mt. Hope firm was hired because of its expertise with such projects.
“They’ve done gazebos and pavilions all over,” Nadine Edwards said.
But this one is different, Yoder said.
Unfinished gazebo ceiling before the top roof was added
“This is the first one so big,” he stressed. “I really enjoy the challenge of something out of the ordinary.”
Mayor Dick Edwards is one of the many people keeping an eye on the construction.
“They’ve been sticking right with it. We’ve really enjoyed working with them,” he said.
Once the work at Wooster Green is completed, the gazebo is intended to be used for community gatherings, small-scale musical events, and other events.
The official launch of the fundraising for the location is scheduled for June 1, at 4 p.m. Though the campaign hasn’t started yet, city residents and businesses have already helped with the expenses.
“People have stepped forward in advance of the public fundraising campaign,” the mayor said.
One donor – who will be recognized on June 1 – gave the entire $50,000 needed for the gazebo. Betco has donated the topsoil that will be needed at the site. And Poggemeyer Design Group donated its design skills in honor of the firm’s 50th anniversary.
“They elected to do this project pro bono. That’s been enormously helpful,” Dick Edwards said.
Gazebo after top roof was installed
The goal is to raise a total of $435,000 for the site. While building Wooster Green is expected to cost $350,000, the rest of the money will be set aside for future needs.
“We wanted an endowment to help maintain the property over the long haul,” Dick Edwards said.
Though the gazebo is the most visible improvement to the site, much of the other work won’t be completed till next year. In 2019, the entry gate wall will be constructed, plantings will be completed, and sidewalks will be installed.
“By this time next year, I really hope it’s nearly done,” the mayor said. “This has been a long-involved process. People are all excited.”
