The Hagerman Group is wrapping up construction on Blake’s Garden, a renovation of the children’s garden at Garfield Park in Indianapolis.
A ribbon cutting ceremony will take place Friday, July 19 to celebrate the opening of the garden.
The renovated park is now named after Blake Bowell, who passed away June 5, 2017 at the age of 25 after a six-year battle with glioblastoma, a rare form of brain cancer. Garfield Park was a meaningful place for Bowell, who worked there for two summers.
“The Hagerman Group is honored to be part of Blake’s Garden, which will celebrate the memory of Blake Bowell while creating new memories for families visiting Garfield Park,” said Bruce Molter, president of The Hagerman Group.
The redesign increases the visibility of the garden while streamlining maintenance needs for staff and increasing program opportunities. The garden is now larger and more prominent and introduces both softscape and hardscape features, like sculptures and an outdoor learning area, “Fran’s Place,” in honor of the late Fran McAllister, wife of Garfield Park supporter P.E. McAllister.
The garden was redesigned by Mader Design, and the concept included some room for The Hagerman Group team members to make some decisions and put their own touches on the construction, according to Richard Gelinas, superintendent at The Hagerman Group.
Richard said the creative nature of the project has been exciting for The Hagerman Group workers who are building Blake’s Garden. They’ve enjoyed the opportunity to share their ideas for the project while being part of a great cause.
“Blake’s Garden hits home for a lot of people, because everyone knows someone who has had cancer,” Richard said. “The team loves coming to work and being entrusted to be a part of the project. When the garden is done, families can bring their children here to entertain them and let them play in the dirt, creating great memories they can draw on later. The garden will serve the community well.”
“The Hagerman Group has done a remarkable job on this project,” said Mark Bowell, Blake’s father. “Working with Hagerman is always a good experience, but this has been a special experience.”
The Hagerman Group is among many organizations and individuals, including Mader Design, MacAllister Machinery Company, and Shelby Materials, who have supported the garden and Garfield Park through in-kind services and sponsorship.
The ribbon cutting will occur the day before the third annual BlakeStrong Fest, presented by Friends of Garfield Park at MacAllister Amphitheater in Garfield Park. The Hagerman Group is a sponsor of the event. Featuring live music, food trucks and a beer pavilion, the event celebrates the memory of Blake Bowell and his courageous cancer journey.
A $10 donation will be requested at the gate, with funds supporting Blake’s Garden and other local nonprofit organizations and Blake’s Garden. BlakeStrong Fest takes place from 4-9:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 20 and features a headlining performance by Hyryder: A Grateful Experience.
For more event information, visit GarfieldParkIndy.org.
