SIA Announces Next Community Project

LAFAYETTE, Ind. - Nov. 19, 2014 - PRLog -- Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc. (SIA) announced the details of its annual community project at a press conference held at Columbian Park this afternoon. In collaboration with the Lafayette Parks Department and the Lafayette Parks Foundation, SIA will be raising funds to complete the first phase of renovations to Memorial Island at Columbian Park.

Memorial Island was designed in 1948 to honor local veterans who had served in our nation’s military. There are five distinct components to Memorial Island which include the Loeb Fountain (nonoperational at this time), Memorial Bridge, “Duck” Island, the Amphitheatre, and the Northeast Entrance. While each of these components exists in its original location, there has been much deterioration of these structures over the past several decades. Renovations to Memorial Island will include refurbishing existing memorials and making structural improvements to all five components.

“SIA is truly honored to lead the fundraising effort that will enable the City of Lafayette to enhance the tribute to military veterans at Memorial Island in Columbian Park,” stated SIA Executive Vice President Tom Easterday. “This project will not only provide further recognition for the sacrifices that our veterans made to preserve our freedom, but will also remind us of the need to support those currently serving in our armed forces. SIA has a significant number of veterans, as well as current members of the Reserves and National Guard, that we are very proud to have in our workforce.”

In addition to restoring Memorial Island, improvements are planned in order to attract additional visitors to the park. Lighting upgrades and a permanent sound system is planned for the Amphitheater and evaluation of the seating plan and provision for shade structures will be conducted in order to enhance programs and performances held at the park.

We are very pleased to partner with SIA on the Memorial Island project,” said Superintendent of Lafayette Parks Department Claudine Laufman. “Memorial Island is a significant part of Columbian Park and the Greater Lafayette community. For decades, it has served as a reminder of the service of our veterans and as a gathering place for families. Our partnership will allow us to implement some needed improvements to the aging facility that will allow Memorial Island to be enjoyed by future generations.”