Local Foundation to invest in Town Square

The Montana Community Foundation announced in the Outlook last week that it had just awarded small grants to a number of foundations, including the Laurel Montana Community Foundation. The LMCF has made plans to use the funds to brighten up a special place in downtown: Town Square. During the before times, Town Square was used frequently during the summer months for outdoor concerts and the Laurel Downtown Farmers Market. Occasionally, there have been youth dance shows and craft sales there.

In an email, the LMCF announced the organization would be, “lighting up a corner of downtown Laurel and town square that is owned by a partner-nonprofit, Laurel Revitalization.”

During previous summers, Rock the Block events were held about every two weeks. Local nonprofit organizations utilized the area on the patio and in front of the mural to sell food and promote goals during the concerts. There were usually children’s activities and dancing.

But, the park and brickwork holding back gardens filled with trees, grass and bushes has been showing signs of wear. Bricks have fallen out in a few spots. While completely useable in agreeable weather, the area needs attention. The LMCF owns the Citizens National Bank building at 101 E. Main St. It abuts the alley next to Town Square off of 1st St.