Boy Scout Plans Library Grounds Improvements

One doesn't need to look too hard to find lingering signs of the destructive storms that hit the region last year. But one local Boy Scout aims to do his part to help the cleanup effort by rolling up his sleeves and getting to work at the library.

Cole Starrett, a 15-year-old member of Boy Scout Troop 76 and freshman at Simsbury High School, addressed the Simsbury Board of Selectman Monday night to request approval for his proposed Eagle Scout project.

Starrett plans to remove debris left by last year's storms between Palmer Hall and the library and add 2-3 new benches for library visitors to enjoy. The town will be adding additional library parking next to the hall which will be connected to the library by a paved path and bridge.

"I want to do the project because with the new parking people are going to be using that space a lot more," Starrett said. His idea was to increase safety and enhance the visual appeal of the area.

Work on the project is set to begin in late April and will be completed in late July, according to the project proposal. Starrett has already obtained a permit from the town's inland wetlands commission and has secured funding from the Friends of the Simsbury Public Library.

"I want to compliment you on bringing forward a very complete project," First Selectman Mary Glassman said. "This is terriffic, and you know the public will really appreciate being able to sit in that area, it's actually a very pretty area."

The board voted unanimously to approve Starrett's project after giving him a round of applause for his efforts.