Memorial Park balustrade project awarded to local firm

Memorial Park balustrade project awarded to local firm
Visitors to Memorial Park pause by the temporary fencing along the bulkhead of Memorial Park on July 1. The City of Jacksonville recently awarded the bid to replace the iconic balustrade to Intron Technologies, Inc.

Intron Technologies, Inc. was selected by the City of Jacksonville as the contractor for the Memorial Park balustrade replacement project, according to a representative from the Memorial Park Association.

The Jacksonville-based company will replace the 600-foot balustrade. It is certified by Cathedral Stone Projects Inc. for historical concrete, stone and masonry restoration projects using the Jahn Restoration Mortar system. The 28-year-old company includes in its historical restoration project roster the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument and the Lightner Museum in St. Augustine. 

“Memorial Park is a gem and one of the City’s flagship parks,” said Randy DeFoor, City of Jacksonville District 14 councilmember. “We are delighted the City’s balustrade restoration project will utilize a local firm, Intron Technologies, to create the iconic balustrade. This is a win-win for our community.” 

The iconic balustrade in Memorial Park was irreparably damaged during Hurricane Irma in September 2017. Additionally, light fixtures atop the original balustrade that had been removed over time will now be replaced with new fixtures and added back to the restored balustrade. These new light fixtures will reflect the historic character of the original fixtures but will be improved by using long-lasting aluminum poles and high-efficiency LED lamps. 

In order to be reimbursed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the plans to replace the balustrade were reviewed by local, state and federal engineers, as well as environmental and historical experts prior to awarding the project. The cost of the project is $404,994. The work is expected to begin in the fall. 

“Like the community, we are thrilled the balustrade restoration project will be underway soon,” said Michele Luthin, a vice president of Memorial Park Association. “Additionally, park supporters and lovers of history may be interested to know pieces of the approximately 600-foot-long concrete balustrade were salvaged after Irma and are available for purchase.”

The proceeds from the sale of salvaged pieces will benefit the Memorial Park Association and will be used for park maintenance. To inquire about availability and price, email [email protected].

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