Commission hears Park Bench History plan, agrees to consider funding in budget

Troy Blevins, representing a Legacy Community Team working with the St. Johns County Cultural Council and the Historic Society, presented a 'Park Bench History' proposal to install interactive benches and statues honoring local figures (including Frederick Douglass, Menorcan heritage, Franklin Smith and Francisco Menendez) as part of the 250th-anniversary activities.

Blevins asked the city to consider contributing $20,000 per year for four years while the county was asked for $30,000 annually; Blevins said private donors would provide the remaining funding and he expects many of the benches to be placed in the historic walkable core. "We want kids to interact with these benches — each will have a QR code with educational content," Blevins said.

Commissioners praised the idea as an educational and tourism enhancement; several suggested emphasizing local figures from Lincolnville and ensuring appropriate transfers of artist rights if benches are placed on city property. The TDC has included funds for related cultural initiatives and commissioners urged staff to consider the request when preparing the upcoming budget.

What’s next: Staff will include the request in the city’s budget materials for the August budget review, and Blevins said the project will pursue county and private matches. The commission indicated preliminary support but did not make a firm funding commitment at Wednesday’s meeting.