News From Britt Hill – May 2018

In early 2016, we sent out a survey to 2,600 constituents asking for extensive input from our community. First, we determined how often the respondent attends concerts and for how many years they have been attending. By determining previous involvement, we were able to gauge their familiarity with our current facilities and how updating and/or expanding might affect their experience. Second, we established how attendees formulate seating preferences, and what trends emerge from these preferences. For instance, we asked patrons if they would prefer stadium seating to the current park-like bench seating. The overwhelming majority of respondents sent a clear message—they love our intimate bench seating. Following up with specific questions that target comfort level, availability, special needs, and other concerns, we were able to understand and respond to what drives these preferences and needs.

The benches we selected are Ipe hardwood. Some compare its strength to that of steel. Similar in appearance to mahogany, Ipe ages beautifully, requires no upkeep and is popular for its durability and rich appearance.

In addition to the new and expanded seats aimed at improving the Britt Experience, accessible seats and spaces became a major consideration throughout the final design and building process. We have thoughtfully designed the project for wheelchairs, including features such as extensive and accessible ADA ramps and approach, ample floor space, and clear sight lines. The two wheelchair areas will be an integral part of the new seating. Moving forward, our venue will provide people with physical disabilities a choice of admission prices and lines of sight comparable to those for members of the general public. Equal access for ALL!

The final cost for the project came in higher than we budgeted. This should come as no surprise to anyone who has ever been involved in construction. Thanks to regional foundations and broad-based community support, it is with gratitude that I can report that we have reached our fundraising goal.

The benches have pre-drilled holes, and steel mounting brackets. The weight of the materials is in excess of 60,000 pounds and arrived in two semi-trucks in mid-April.

Landscapers and a crew of six installers were standing by ready to get this thing done just in time for the Jacksonville Elementary School play on June 7.

You will have your park back soon and it will be better than ever!