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Columbus and Bartholomew County’s Bicentennial logo.
Columbus residents now have the opportunity to buy a small piece of a bicentennial project as groundbreaking nears.
According to a news release on the city of Columbus’s website, individuals and businesses can now purchase engraved bricks for the 1821 Trail, which the city and Bicentennial Commission have called the “seminal project” of the bicentennial year.
Bricks are $100 each, and more information on how to order is available at columbus.in.gov. Officials expect to break ground on the trail in December and see construction completed in the summer of 2022.
The 1821 Trail extension will extend from Water Street to Lafayette Avenue, connecting to the Haw Creek Trail. It will be constructed along First Street behind the Bartholomew County Jail, Columbus City Hall and the former Republic building. The project will also include architectural, historical and artistic elements.
Through the city’s brick campaign for the project, residents can buy commemorative bricks to recognize different things, such as specific events, loved ones, businesses, or their time living in Columbus.
“Bricks will be placed along this important trail connection which will continue to promote the walkability of our city,” officials said.
Per the city’s website, each brick sells for $100, regardless of how many letters or lines are engraved. Up to three lines of text are allowed, with a maximum of 16 characters per line, including spaces and punctuation. Payment can either be submitted online or via mail.
“We reserve the right to reject any inappropriately worded submission,” the order form states.
In addition, three Bartholomew County residents will have their names engraved on commemorative bricks as part of an essay contest sponsored by the Columbus Area Bicentennial Committee. The “Bartholomew County: Your Vision Our Future” contest, which has closed, invited county residents to share their ideas about the future of the area.
Winners and runner-ups will be chosen from three different age groups and announced in December. Those who come in first place will be invited to participate in a groundbreaking ceremony for the 1821 Trail extension, and their names will be put on commemorative bricks along the trail. They will also receive cash prizes.
