Work to begin soon on Rotary Plaza in Palatine
The Rotary Club of Palatine has left its mark on the community for nearly 50 years; now, the organization hopes its next project in the heart of downtown will be around for at least another 50.
The civic service group has teamed with the village to create Rotary Plaza, which will transform the green space at the northeast corner of Palatine and Plum Grove roads into a gathering spot and hub of information.
“We wanted to do something that stayed true to our mission and gives back to the community,” said Liz Noe, project chairman and immediate past president. “We've been here for 50 years, and that's quite a milestone for any organization.”
Rotary Plaza will feature an electronic community sign board, picturesque landscaping and customized benches built by a fellow Rotary Club in North Carolina.
To help offset the cost, the plaza also will include personalized bricks that can be purchased by individuals, businesses and organizations. Prices range from $100 for a smaller, three-line stone to $500 for a five-line stone measuring 8 by 12 inches.
To guarantee placement, paver orders must be placed by Sunday, Sept. 1. Forms are available at palatinerotary.com.
The groundbreaking will take place at 9 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 10. Work is expected to be completed by the end of October, but the official dedication won't be held until March 2014 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Palatine club's founding.
The club distributes tens of thousands of dollars each year to various organizations, the majority of which is raised at its annual Oktoberfest.
“I would have a hard time finding a single individual or business that hasn't been affected by the Rotary Club in some way,” Noe said.
The village of Palatine will be responsible for maintenance of the plaza and has budgeted $65,000 for the electronic sign. Officials said the plaza's look will be consistent with existing structures in the area.
For more, visit palatinerotary.com or email 50@palatinerotary.com.