Lintott-Alexander Park in Chehalis is set to receive a new statue thanks to donations from former Chehalis Foundation President Mike Austin and his wife, Susan, as well as Chehalis City Councilor Bob Spahr and his wife, Jackie.
The statue is titled “Jumbo Tree Adventure” and was created by Art of Bronze, the same vendor that produced other existing statues donated by the Austins, which are located at the Shaw Aquatics Center, Penny Playground, the Chehalis Sports Complex, the Chehalis Parks and Recreation Office and the Vernetta Smith Timberland Library.
“Jumbo Tree Adventure,” thanks to the council’s unanimous approval Monday night, will take approximately eight to 10 weeks to receive, as they are made to order. City staff will install the statue at the park, with an estimated cost of approximately $700 to cover supplies and staff time.
Lilly Wall, city parks and recreation director, said the statue is currently valued at $14,000, but it is being offered at a 50% discount.
“The sculptures are not only visually stunning, but they also help create a welcoming and creative atmosphere in our community spaces,” Wall said during Monday’s council meeting.
Wall told The Chronicle that a park caretaker discovered and cleared the brush around a tree that makes the play area look strikingly like the statue’s likeness.
Spahr recused himself from the vote as he had financial interest in the item.
