The capital improvements project in Cianfrani Park has resumed and is progressing. In October, after some paving was done on the east and west ends of the park, and some of the beautiful new benches installed, the project was delayed due to the contractor being pulled off and assigned to other jobs. It resumed again in April with work on the center square.
Four large Kentucky Coffee trees were planted on April 11, after the root balls were surrounded with biochar and Mycorrhizae, special fertilizing materials purchased by Friends of Cianfrani Park to assist in drought tolerance, and create an ideal garden soil structure that drains, breaths, and retains optimum moisture levels.
The Kentucky Coffee tree itself is drought-resistant, tolerant of pollution, and adaptable to a variety of soils. With its reputation as a tough species, the Kentucky Coffeetree is known as an excellent choice for parks, golf courses and other large areas. It is also widely used as an ornamental tree. The tree’s picturesque profile stands out in all seasons and can be attributed to a unique growth habit of coarse, ascending branches that often form a narrow crown. Each tree will be surrounded by iron fencing that will help to keep them alive, so they can grow to provide a wonderful shaded area.
Pavers have been laid in the center square that not only provide beauty, but also will help with allowing the trees to receive plenty of rainwater. While they establish themselves, the trees will need be cared for by daily watering and volunteers are needed. If you are willing help with this, contact us at cianfranipark@gmail.com.
The City Seal Statue will be installed on the east end when certain electrical issues have been resolved. However, we are assuming that there will be other delays due to the fact that it is too late in the season to plant the five remaining trees and repair the turf which has been badly compacted. For these reasons, we expect some work to be postponed until the fall.
However, we do expect the park to be ready for our Fridays in June Concert Series.
