Broad Street Park - In 2005, the City approved and accepted Dr. Jim Congleton's gift of a 30-foot tall sculpture reminiscent of New Bern's prized spider lily flower. Dr. Congleton commissioned the sculpture designed and constructed by Susan Pascal Beran, a well-known artist whose work is featured in the Kennedy Center and major cities throughout the country.

The sculpture will be installed in the undeveloped parcel of City land at the end of Broad Street in mid-August, 2010, in celebration of the City's 300th Anniversary. In addition, Allison Platt & Associates, a landscape architect firm, designed a public park to showcase the spider lily sculpture. It will be a key component in the 1.5-mile Riverwalk, which links downtown parks and attractions and serves as a catalyst for attracting visitors and private investment. The park is sure to be a favorite spot for residents and visitors alike, but we need your financial support to make it happen.

Swiss Bear Downtown Development Corporation is conducting a fundraising campaign with a goal of $200,000 to develop the public space around the sculpture (sculpture and installation cost funded in total by Dr. Congleton). Like the campaigns Swiss Bear coordinated to raise funds to re-develop Union Point Park and Council Bluff Green, there are various levels of giving with permanent recognition of contributors. Contributions will also be used to purchase and plant trees, install additional lighting and improve sidewalks.Levels of giving will be added to our website when campaign details are defined.

Swiss Bear DDC is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, established in 1979 to lead the revitalization of downtown New Bern. Contributions are tax-deductible. For more information on the Swiss Bear organization or this project call (252) 638-5781.