BERLIN, Ala. – The Berlin Town Council on Monday evening moved forward with plans to locate a storm shelter and develop a recreational park complex on the property around the town’s farmers’ market and temporary town hall.
The council approved a motion to put its shelter project out for bids, with help in funding from the North Central Alabama Regional Council of Governments (NARCOG). The Town seeks a shelter for approximately 100 occupants, capable of withstanding bursts of wind up to 250 miles per hour. Bids for construction will be accepted until 6:45 p.m. on July 17, 2023.
Mayor Patrick Bates told the council he will work with engineers on needed changes to a plan proposed by St. John & Associates for development of a recreational park around the farmers’ market and temporary town hall site. The plan and ideas discussed by the council include:
- Permanent town hall building- councilmen and Bates agreed that the structure should be located on the northwest corner of the property, near the intersection of County Roads 1614 and 1615
- Playground, basketball court, splash pad, picnic tables and walking areas
- Expansion of the farmers’ market to twice its current size
- Permanent restroom building east of the farmers’ market
- Permanent parking area for 70-100 cars
In other business, Bates told the council that St. John & Associates is still working on a proposal for a grant for flood control improvements. He said the chance of funding the project “looks promising.”
Town Clerk Keirstyn Montgomery noted that, for its farmers’ market, Berlin has joined Sweet Grown Alabama, a nonprofit program that connects consumers to local sources for agricultural products. She told the council the state government will declare July 22, 2023 “Sweet Grown Alabama Day,” and said the Town is planning festivities for that day at the farmers’ market, possibly including kids’ inflatables and a food truck.
The Berlin Town Council meets at 7 p.m. on the third Monday of each month at Berlin Town Hall. The public is invited to attend.
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