The water would be recycled through a below-ground system, much like a swimming pool. Unlike other recent proposals for monuments or statues that have fizzled, the effort to build a millennium marker already has the support of well-known city leaders. Graham said several local corporations, which he would not name, have expressed support for the project. The group will seek several large donations but will welcome any amount supporters can afford. The millennium fountain committee includes Graham, Fischer, Planning Commission chairwoman Virginia Littrell, First Night executive director Pat Mason, Great Explorations museum executive director Bob Patterson, civic leader Jim Gillespie and city marketing officials.
Several locations are on the table.
One would be on Central Avenue near 24th Street and be incorporated into a project to redevelop the corridor from Interstate 275 to 34th Street. Although some committee members think the fountain would help the Central Avenue Tomorrow plan succeed, Fischer is hesitant to support that idea. He says the waterfront is a perfect place for a festive fountain and adds that the park is open to everyone at no cost. Once built, the fountain would be maintained by city workers, who would make sure that the water supply is fresh and that the surface pavement stays clean. Littrell said the committee will begin meeting twice a month to put the plans together.