Chamber renovates empty lot in Hurley

By BRYAN HELLIOS

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Hurley - The former Wishbones Restaurant lot is being transformed into a green space in downtown Hurley.

The Hurley Chamber of Commerce received property on the corner of Silver Street and Fourth Avenue last year by a generous donation, according to Rita Franzoi, marketing director and event coordinator for the chamber.

A public meeting for residents and business owners was held so input on the future use of the property could be presented to the chamber's board of directors, according to Franzoi. The board voted to develop the lot into what will be "Heritage Park."

The former building was leveled and a fence along the west and south property lines was built. Trees and grass have been planted.

Jill Giovanoni, of Giovanoni True Value Hardware, said having a park will be a good addition to main street.

"I like it, its very nice," she said, adding "We went from a building that was there for five years that was burnt-out."

According to the chamber, local events this summer, including the Paavo Nurmi Marathon, which is starting and finishing this year near the location of the park, will allow for an event tent set-up for volunteers to assist race participants.

"Everyone at the Hurley Chamber is excited about this addition to the Hurley downtown," Franzoi stated in an email. "We hope everyone else is as well."

Jody Brown, bartender at the Iron Horse Saloon, said with all the activities held in Hurley "this is going to be nice."

She hopes bleachers are installed in the park so people can watch parades because sitting on the street is not easy.

Brown is excited to see the changes being done and has seen Franzoi working in the park.

"She is doing a great job," she added.