In 1992, a volunteer committee led by the indefatigable Betty Lou Cummings created the Library Riverwalk and Gardens.
A 6-month fundraising campaign drew 5,000 contributors, donating cash as well as services.
Together with a 2nd phase 7 years later, the accomplishments are stunning:
- 11,000 bricks, many of them engraved, in a path 638 feet long
- 57 benches, 3 picnic tables, 23 pole lights and 2 sculptures
- 127 shrubs and bushes, plus 19 trees (and a sprinkler system)
- Stairs from the library to the water, and a boat launch walkway.
A small portion of the library Riverwalk.
After 22 years, the committee has asked the town to take over responsibility for maintanance. They’ve turned over $15,000 in their account to help.
Parks and Rec is happy to accept the responsibility. Over the past several years they’ve taken a more active role in assisting the committee. With the opening of the renovated Levitt Pavilion nearby, the time is ripe for the transfer to happen.
The Riverwalk is one of Westport’s hidden gems.
Okay, it’s not really hidden. Plenty of people enjoy it, at all times of day and throughout the year.
But many others don’t know it exists. And not many know the back story of its creation.
Thanks, Betty Lou and the 5,000 donors who helped make it a reality. More than 2 decades later, your work is greatly appreciated.
And it looks better than ever.