Clock tower project nears completion

The clock tower project has really taken some big steps toward completion.

During the last three weeks, residents driving or walking down Flaming Gorge Way may have noticed a significant change to the clock-tower area.

For a long time, the area remained a dirt lot after it was dug up for the changes. The project, which was supposed to be completed in the summer, hit a few minor snags. These have been taken care of and the project is nearing completion.

Sod, decorative rocks, running water, benches and shrubs are now in place.

“We’re pretty much caught up with and done with landscaping this week,” Erek Roosa, interim Parks and Recreation Director said.

Roosa said the project is being completed by Hogan Construction. After the sprinkler system was put in, things just started falling into place.

“Once they got going, they did pretty good,” he said.

Roosa said the project will not be complete without the clock and lights, which have not arrived yet. Some fencing and wall work are still on the list of things to do, but nothing major is left.

Once the lights and clock arrive, the crew will install them and the project will be done. As for a time frame, that all depends on when the lights and clock arrive.

URA Main Street Administrator Jenny Melvin said hopes the project will be completed by the Mayor’s Tree Lighting Ceremony, which usually takes place the first week in December. 

“I’m so anxious for it to be done,” she said.

For some, it seemed as though the project was taking too long.

“I was looking at it and thought “oh it’s never going to get done,’” Melvin said.

However, after seeing all of the progress made, she is pleased.

She said this project is something the city can be proud of because it will be one completed with grant money. The city received a grant from the Wyoming Business Council and one from Wyoming Main Street. The city and URA department kicked in the rest of the money to complete the project, which cost $332,000 total. At first, the project’s total was $325,000, but the Green River City Council voted to add chimes to the clock, which cost an additional $7,000. Melvin said these chimes can be changed to follow the seasons.

Another aspect of the project Melvin is excited about, is the speakers that will be placed on the lights. She said this will allow the speaker to be heard through the whole park, which is something the area has always had a problem with.

Although the clock tower grand opening may be later this year, Melvin is already looking toward the future.

“Next summer we are going to see some more events in there,” she said.