In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the progress of the Downtown Harrisonburg Park project, highlighting a newly drafted Construction and Consulting Agreement aimed at facilitating the construction of a public park by a private organization, Build Our Park. The agreement outlines the roles of both the city and the nonprofit, detailing how construction will proceed once sufficient funds are raised.

Key points of the agreement include provisions for construction contracts, insurance, and the potential for the city to pursue grants that Build Our Park, as a private entity, may not be eligible for. The collaboration aims to ensure that the project remains revenue neutral while maximizing funding opportunities for the park's development.

The meeting also addressed the importance of adhering to existing city policies regarding naming rights and donor recognition, ensuring that any major contributions are acknowledged in line with best practices. The Build Our Park organization expressed its commitment to working alongside the city throughout the project and beyond, emphasizing a partnership that will enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors in Harrisonburg and the surrounding Shenandoah Valley.

City officials praised the dedication and adaptability of the Build Our Park team, acknowledging the extensive work that has gone into refining the project. Following discussions, a motion was made and seconded to approve the conceptual plan and authorize the city attorney to finalize the construction agreement, marking a significant step forward for the park initiative. The meeting concluded with a sense of excitement about the project's potential to transform the downtown area into a vibrant community space.