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October 19, 2008

The curtain will drop on Town Point Park Monday, October 20, 2008 following the conclusion of the 26th season of events and will be closed to the public for the next 8 months as major renovations begin to this 7 ½ acre waterfront icon.

A newly renovated park will reopen in grand style on the July 4th weekend with Norfolk’s annual Harborfest celebration; Friday- Sunday, July 3-5, 2009.

The $11.5 million renovation is a first in the park’s 25 years as a Norfolk institution. “The project will ensure that this valued public open space continues to operate year-round as a first class waterfront venue for community celebrations and as a safe and enjoyable urban oasis when the park is not active with events and programs” explains Norfolk Festevents Executive Director Karen Scherberger.

During the eight-month renovation, the waterfront’s bulkhead, electrical, water, sewer and storm water systems will all receive needed upgrades. The park will feature an improved layout and pathway systems for pedestrian access to the waterfront and along Waterside Drive, new stage locations that will provide better lawn seating, sound, lighting and support facilities. New light fixtures, signage, interactive water fountains and landscaping will make the park greener and more user-friendly.

Norfolk Festevents is leading the community’s efforts to raise $1million in private funds to support the project by launching a grass roots commemorative Brick and Marker program called the “Turning Point Park Project”.  Throughout the renovated waterfront park, bricked foot paths, park benches, trees, fountains and plazas will bear the names of thousands of individuals, businesses and organizations who wish to participate in this special “legacy” program.   For tax-deductible contributions starting at $100, one can sponsor any number of engraved commemorative bricks, markers and plaques, as well as sponsor a limited number of park benches and trees. Visit www.festevents.org for more details or call 757-441-2345.

Due to the July opening of the park, the Spring Virginia Beer and Town Point Spring Wine Festivals will be held on the Nauticus and Half Moone Cruise Terminal grounds. Other traditional June events will be scheduled later in the summer.