$50,000 Gazebo in Pine Community Park Costs Taxpayers Nary a Cent

The Gazebo—nestled behind Pine Community Center and surrounded by fall colors—is a spot just crying out to have its photo taken.

It's that pretty.

Set atop a hill overlooking a pond, the Gazebo is the latest addition to Pine Community Park.

It cost $50,000 to build, install landscaping and a long brick walkway, and pave a drive and handicapped-accessible parking.

Pine taxpayers did not have to pay a penny—the nonprofit Friends of Pine Community Parks picked up the tab, with the help of a $5,000 state grant.

Friends President John Gill and Pine Parks and Recreation Director Joni Patsko joined Matt Cooper and Meagan Quail, who also work at the community center, to cut a ceremonial ribbon Saturday.

A short time later the Gazebo already was in use—children and adults gathered under its roof as a story teller read a book during Pine's annual Halloween celebration.

Gill and Patsko envision concerts and open microphone nights there also.

When the township holds its annual Holiday Dazzle in November, Santa will greet kids in the Gazebo, weather permitting, Patsko said.

And then there are weddings.

Pine Community Center offers rentals packages for brides and grooms who want to get married in the Gazebo, then hold their reception in the community center, which is only a few steps away.

For information about the Gazebo, call Pine Community Center at 724-625-1636 ext. 3.