Dried-up budget threatens flow at 2nd fountain
First it was Wilber; now Julie's facing the shut-off valve.
The Julie Penrose Fountain at America the Beautiful Park will stay dry unless the community pitches in 2.5 million pennies.
"At this point in time, it is not scheduled to be turned on," said Paul Butcher, Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services director. "We need to get a critical mass of funding."
Hopefully, it will be in dollars, but pennies are welcome.
He said $25,000 is needed by early May to keep the fountain going at full strength all summer.
A week ago, when Uncle Wilber in Acacia Park faced the same fate, local philanthropist Lyda Hill's Hill Foundation gave a $25,000 check to the city.
The donation for Uncle Wilber was a challenge grant to get people to contribute to the plight of downtown sister fountain Julie Penrose.
The city is seeking individual and corporate sponsors for the popular America the Beautiful attraction erected in 2007.
The $1.6 million fountain that doubles as a unique artwork is in good shape and doesn't need repairs, Butcher said, but budget cuts eliminated needed staffing and operating funds to run it this summer.
The fountain could spray on a limited basis on less than $25,000.
"This fountain has been tremendously successful," Butcher said, "On a hot summer day, it's packed with kids. Other than the aesthetic view, it's all about the kids."
Kristen Downs, a volunteer and mother, is helping the fundraising campaign.
"I'm fighting for the children. It's one place people can go and have a safe good time together," Downs said. "I think it is truly a public safety item. What are the kids going to do this summer to stay cool and stay out of trouble?"
Uncle Wilber doesn't replace the need for the Penrose fountain, she said. "Acacia Park is a different phenomenon in itself."
Both fountains are assets to the city, she said.
"We only have two months before it needs to be turned on. It's imperative we come up with this money now."
TO GIVE TO THE JULIE PENROSE FOUNTAIN
Checks can be sent to city of Colorado Springs Finance Department, 30 S. Nevada Ave., Colorado Springs, 80903
E-mail: pbutcher@springsgov.com
