WPA 1938 Wall Restoration Project
The wall and pillars were built in 1938 as part of a depression era Works Progress Administration project to construct a municipal pool and bathhouse with an adjoining park. The wall and pillars are made of limestone sourced from a local quarry and mark the entrance to the aquatic center and Veterans Memorial Park. The wall and pillars are the only structures from this project that remain intact in their original form. The structures serve as a reminder to the hardships endured by residents of Kasson and the surrounding region and their dedication to bettering the community in the midst of a Great Depression.
The scope of the restoration project is to repair and replace deteriorated mortar and brick from the pillars and implement measures that will preserve and protect the structures from further deterioration. Additionally, plaques will be placed descripting the original work and detailing the effort that it took.
$29,100 the first year is for a grant to the city of Kasson to restore the wall and pillars of the historical Works Progress Administration (WPA) project at Veterans Memorial Park.
The measurable outcomes will be related to the restoration of the historic wall. The goal is to repair the structure and when this is accomplished, the structure's functioning lifespan should be increased.
Quantitative data: Wall lifespan should be raised from 1-2 years to 30-40 years.
Qualitative data: Completion of this project will allow for greater historical awareness regarding the Great Depression era WPA programming and use of the publicly owned Aquatic Center and Park will increase. This will allow residents of all ethnicities, abilities and incomes to become part of the local culture and history. This should lead to a Increased knowledge and awareness of the way that history affects people's lives and how that knowledge can help people make informed decisions for the future.